Episodes
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Understanding the deep-rooted patterns that drive our behavior at work is crucial for personal and professional growth. Our past experiences, particularly those from childhood, shape the way we show up in our careers and leadership roles today. From survival instincts to ingrained habits, let’s explore the complex interplay between our history and our present work life.
Joining me is Erin Baute, a behaviorist, business strategist, and Enneagram expert. Erin’s extensive knowledge in personality psychology and somatic practices provides valuable insights into how our early life experiences influence our behavior patterns in and out of work. Whether you’ve struggled with setting boundaries, managing your instincts, or simply understanding why you react the way you do in professional settings, this discussion with Erin will offer clarity and direction.
In our conversation, we discuss the three core survival instincts—self-preservation, social, and sexual (or relational)—and how they manifest in our daily lives and in the workplace. We also tackle the challenges of behavior change, emphasizing the importance of self-awareness, slowing down, and making intentional choices to align our habits with our true selves. Tune in for a deep and insightful discussion that will help you better understand and manage the behavioral patterns that shape your professional journey.
We talk about:
[02:49] The origin of work/life separation or leaving yourself at the door[08:48] Why understanding your childhood can give insights into your current work patterns[14:45] The three core survival instincts and why they are important to pay attention to[16:44] Self-preservation[24:10] Social[37:45] Sexual/Relational[48:18] Applying the Enneagram to your survival instincts to deepen your awareness and understand what helps you create safety[54:16] How to make change when it’s hard (and accept that it takes time)[01:06:50] Using the Enneagram for change[01:10:06] Recognizing when and how to get out of your head and into your bodyResources:
Learn more at livingtheenneagram.comFollow Erin on Instagram: @livingtheenneagramConnect with me:
InstagramLinkedInYouTubeselfatwork.comProduced by NOVA Media
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We’re thrilled to revisit our conversation with Annie Costabile, a journalist with the Chicago Sun-Times who covers the Chicago Sky WNBA team. Annie’s journey into journalism was driven by a clear vision of her dream career, but the path to success has been anything but linear. From navigating career setbacks to overcoming personal trials, Annie’s experiences have shaped her into a bold advocate for women's sports media and an industry innovator.
In this episode, Annie reflects on a particularly challenging year that made her reassess her relationship with her work and ultimately transformed her career. Her story is one of perseverance, dedication, and the drive to change the game in media coverage of women's sports. Join us as we revisit Annie’s inspiring journey and learn from her experiences in pursuing a dream career against all odds.
Resources:
Follow Annie on Instagram: @anniecostabileConnect with Annie on LinkedInListen to Annie’s podcast: Equal PlayRead "Emotional Agility"Forbes: Mapping Your Career Journey With IntentionHBR: How to Build a Career You Won’t HateConnect with me:
InstagramLinkedInYouTubeselfatwork.comProduced by NOVA Media
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Missing episodes?
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Navigating life's challenges and rediscovering a sense of purpose at work can be a transformative journey. In this episode, we sit down with Andrew Geonetta, Group Product Manager at Aspira, to explore how a major life transition and a challenging work environment pushed him to reevaluate his career and personal life. Andrew shares the deeply personal experience of moving home after starting a family, a decision that brought with it significant professional and personal challenges, including the strain on his health due to a high-stress work environment.
In our conversation, we dive into the importance of acknowledging and managing emotions, the role of self-awareness in creating meaningful connections, and how to build a work culture that supports well-being and authenticity. Andrew’s journey is a powerful reminder that taking a step back, reflecting, and making intentional changes can lead to profound personal and professional growth.
Resources:
Connect with Andrew on LinkedInRead: The Culture Code by Daniel CoyleRead: Braving the Wilderness by Brené BrownRead: Extreme Ownership by Jocko WillinkRead: Team dynamics: The five keys to building effective teams - Think with GoogleConnect with me:
InstagramLinkedInYouTubeselfatwork.comProduced by NOVA Media
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Do you find yourself striving for flawlessness and getting stuck in the details? Welcome back to "Let's Talk About Labels," where we dive into the labels we often use to describe ourselves and others. In this episode, I'm joined by my friend and fellow entrepreneur, Arden Evenson, to unpack the "Perfectionist" label. We share personal stories about our struggles with perfectionism, discuss how it shows up in our lives and work, and explore its impact on mental health and productivity. Together, we delve into the difference between striving for excellence and the paralyzing fear of not being perfect, offering practical strategies for finding balance and self-compassion. Join us as we explore the complexities behind being a perfectionist and giving yourself some grace.
Resources:
Connect with Arden on LinkedInPractice self-compassion: centerformsc.orgConnect with me:
InstagramLinkedInYouTubeselfatwork.comProduced by NOVA Media
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Navigating a career while managing a chronic health condition and invisible disability is no small feat. In this episode, we hear from Alysha-Aubrey Bursey, the Senior Director of Affinity Programs at 1871, as she shares her journey with narcolepsy and its impact on her professional life. Alysha-Aubrey’s story is one of resilience and self-advocacy, offering valuable insights into how to navigate the workplace with honesty and kindness.
Alysha-Aubrey opens up about the importance of creating inclusive environments where marginalized individuals feel seen and valued, and the positive impact it can have on your business. Tune in to learn about the challenges Alysha-Aubrey has faced, the strategies she’s employed to advocate for herself, and the lessons she’s learned about the power of fostering inclusive and supportive workplaces.
Resources:
Learn more at 1871 ChicagoConnect with Alysha-Aubrey Bursey on LinkedIn35. Are You a People Pleaser? | Let’s Talk About LabelsRead: 6 Ways To Be An Authentic Ally At WorkRead: DEI Deconstructed by Lily ZhengRead: Disability Visibility by Alice WongConnect with me:
InstagramLinkedInYouTubeselfatwork.comProduced by NOVA Media
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Ever felt like your work is taking over your personal life? Setting boundaries at work is essential for maintaining balance and protecting your well-being. Let’s dive into the critical topic of boundary-setting and its impact on our overall health and happiness.
Joining me is Christine Kenline, a mindfulness transpersonal counselor and a soon-to-be clinical mental health practitioner. Christine brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to the conversation, offering practical tools and insights into managing boundaries effectively.
We tackle the challenges of saying no, the societal and personal factors that make boundary-setting difficult, and share personal stories highlighting these struggles. Christine offers practical advice, including body-based practices and self-reflection techniques. Tune in for valuable insights and actionable advice to help you navigate these complex issues.
We talk about:
[05:30] Defining what boundaries mean to you and trusting your intuition[13:25] Balancing boundaries at work in an always-connected 9-5 world[17:21] Recognizing and dealing with moments of burnout and how that relates to boundaries[24:14] Learning to say “no” to friends or people in power even when it doesn’t feel safe[41:21] How boundaries fall on a spectrum and how that relates to different Enneagram Types[53:39] Tools for checking in with your personal boundariesResources:
Follow Christine on Instagram: @christinekenlineRead: Set Boundaries, Find Peace by Nedra TawwabListen: HBR Podcast - Setting Boundaries at WorkRead: Boundaries & Protection by Pixie LighthorseConnect with me:
InstagramLinkedInYouTubeselfatwork.comProduced by NOVA Media
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What does it mean to navigate your career authentically while dealing with profound personal loss? Today I’m joined by the incredible Mimi Gonzalez, a community organizer, writer, and the founder of griefsense. Mimi is on a mission to make the conversation around grief, loss, and mortality more accessible and relevant, especially for young people from minoritized backgrounds.
We dive deep into Mimi's journey from corporate life to entrepreneurship, exploring how her experiences with grief have influenced her career choices and personal growth. Mimi opens up about the challenges of being a first-generation Afro-Latina in corporate America, the importance of finding and creating safe spaces, and the power of building a personal brand. We also discuss the concept of "griefsense," an intuition Mimi believes is unlocked after experiencing loss which can inspire purpose and creativity. Join us as we talk about the importance of authentic self-expression, the role of community in healing, and how to balance personal well-being with professional aspirations.
Resources:
Learn more at mimigonzalez.orgConnect with Mimi Gonzalez on LinkedInListen: griefsense podcastWatch: HINDZ on YouTube32. How can different generations work together? | Career Questions24. How do I define my personal brand? | Career QuestionsConnect with me:
InstagramLinkedInYouTubeselfatwork.comProduced by NOVA Media
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What does it mean to be a people pleaser? Welcome to the first episode of our new series, "Let's Talk About Labels," where we dive deep into the labels we often use to describe ourselves and others. In this episode, I'm joined by fellow entrepreneur Arden Evenson to unpack the "People Pleaser" label. Together, we’re listening to voice notes from the audience to explore what being a people pleaser means to each of us. We share personal stories, discuss the impact of people-pleasing on our own well-being, and offer practical strategies for setting boundaries while maintaining positive relationships. Join us as we explore the complexities behind being a people pleaser and learn how to navigate this label in a way that honors your own needs.
Resources:
Connect with Arden on LinkedInRead: Emotional Agility by Susan DavidConnect with me:
InstagramLinkedInYouTubeselfatwork.comProduced by NOVA Media
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Starting this month, I’m excited to launch a new series called "Let's Talk About Labels," where we’ll delve into the labels we give ourselves and each other, such as "perfectionist," "people pleaser," or "introvert." These labels can shape our behavior and interactions in surprising ways, sometimes limiting us or helping us find common ground. In this series, co-hosted with fellow entrepreneur Arden Evenson, we'll explore how these labels show up differently for different people and bring in new voices through engaging voice notes from the Working Your Way community. Tune in to discover how we can navigate these labels more mindfully and embrace our authentic selves.
Resources:
Join the discussion by sharing your thoughts on being an optimist or pessimist, or an introvert or extrovert. Email your voice notes to [email protected] and be part of the conversation!Connect with me:
InstagramLinkedInYouTubeselfatwork.comProduced by NOVA Media
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We’re excited to revisit one of our earlier episodes featuring the insightful Antonio Garcia. As the Chief Innovation and Strategy Officer at TXI, Antonio's career showcases the power of design and human-centered innovation. Beyond his workplace achievements, he’s also the founder of Dadwell & Company, a podcast that explores the lives of men balancing fatherhood and creativity.
In this episode, Antonio shares his unique career journey, highlighting the importance of self-trust and intuition. He discusses how these guiding forces have helped him navigate decisions, from knowing when to stay and grow within a role to recognizing when it’s time to embark on new ventures. Antonio also emphasizes the value of self-reflection, taking career breaks, and defining one’s core values. Join us as we learn from Antonio’s experiences in building a successful and sustainable career.
Resources:
Follow Antonio’s work at amgarcia.comListen to The Dadwell Podcast: dadwell.coConnect with Antonio on LinkedInBrené Brown’s Living Into Our ValuesHBR: Use Strategic Thinking to Create the Life You WantYear CompassRelated Episodes:
11. Should I quit my job? | Career QuestionsConnect with me:
InstagramLinkedInYouTubeselfatwork.comProduced by NOVA Media
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Understanding the dynamics of a multigenerational workplace is crucial for fostering a cohesive and effective team. With five generations currently in the workforce, each shaped by different historical contexts and experiences, it's important to navigate these differences to create an inclusive and productive work environment. This episode explores the challenges and opportunities that come with managing a diverse generational workforce, particularly focusing on the youngest generation entering the workforce—Gen Z.
My guest today is Shereen Sater, founder of The Curve Collective and an adjunct professor at Northwestern University. Shereen brings a wealth of expertise in training, workshop facilitation, and consulting, specifically aimed at helping companies support their employees’ early development. Her deep understanding of Gen Z and her experience in bridging generational gaps make her an ideal guide to this topic.
In our conversation, we debunk common stereotypes about Gen Z, discuss the importance of emotional intelligence and transparent communication, and explore strategies for leveraging the strengths of each generation. We offer practical advice on how companies can adapt their work models to better support Gen Z employees, ensuring that all generations can thrive together. Whether you're a manager looking to improve team dynamics or an employee navigating a confusing workplace, this episode is packed with insights to help you succeed.
In this episode, we talk about:
The five generations at work and how historical context shaped them:[03:12] The Traditionalists[09:22] The Boomers [15:46] Gen X [19:50] Millennials [25:23] Gen Z[34:26] The importance of providing context and clear communication for Gen Z employees [42:18] How transparent communication can improve team dynamics and employee satisfaction in a multigenerational workplace[51:23] The impact of optionality on Gen Z and the potential for loyalty if they find the right fit[1:02:10] Why emotional intelligence is crucial for effective leadership in a multigenerational workplaceResources:
Learn more at the-curve.coConnect with Shereen on LinkedInDownload The Rethinking Gen Z Report from The Curve CollectiveRead: Purdue - Generational Differences In The WorkplaceRead: Sticking Points by Haydn ShawConnect with me:
InstagramLinkedInYouTubeselfatwork.comProduced by NOVA Media
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Ever feel like what you’re doing at work doesn’t matter? Today’s guest, Edina Kalamperovic, SVP at Publicis Groupe, shares her journey from an immigrant childhood to becoming a senior leader who makes a big impact, revealing the pivotal moments and lessons learned along the way.
Edina dives into the challenges of navigating early career hurdles and the importance of having a purpose in your work. We discuss recognizing and overcoming burnout, and how stepping out of your comfort zone can open new doors. Edina’s leadership style emphasizes authenticity, transparency, and earning the trust of those you work with.
If you're looking to take proactive steps in your career, understand the importance of authentic leadership, or learn strategies to overcome burnout, Edina’s story is sure to resonate. Let’s get into it!
Resources:
Download the Energy Inventory WorksheetRead Edina’s work on Substack: edinakalamperovic.substack.comConnect with Edina on LinkedInHow to Restore Yourself from Burnout with Dr. Christina Maslach - How to be Awesome at Your JobConnect with me:
InstagramLinkedInYouTubeselfatwork.comProduced by NOVA Media
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Have you ever wondered how following your curiosity can shape an extraordinary career? In this episode, Jill Lyons, the SVP of Creative Operations at Maximum Effort, opens up about her transition from traditional TV production to directing creative operations in an innovative media firm.
Jill talks candidly about the factors that influenced her career, including her history in journalism and the variety of positions she has played. We talk about her career as a pyramid, accumulating a wide range of experiences to build the base and then narrowing in on what you love the most. Jill also discusses her difficulties in letting go of predictability and perfectionism at work and surrendering to possibility. Join us for an inspiring conversation full of practical advice to help you explore and embrace your own creative career path.
Resources:
Learn more about Jill at jilllyons.comConnect with Jill on LinkedInRead Find Your Zone of Genius by Laura GarnettRead Designing Your Life by Bill Burnett & Dave EvansReflected Best Self Exercise™Listen to 24. How do I define my personal brand? | Career QuestionsConnect with me:
InstagramLinkedInYouTubeselfatwork.comProduced by NOVA Media
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Taking charge of your career path can often feel overwhelming, especially when you're unsure of the direction you want to head in or feel stuck in your current role. In this episode, we explore how to intentionally design a career that aligns with your passions and strengths, offering practical advice on navigating internal career moves and leveraging your current position for growth and fulfillment.
My guest today is Mollie Amkraut Mueller, the founder and CEO of Crew, a company dedicated to helping individuals craft more fulfilling careers. Her innovative approach combines coaching, design thinking, and peer groups to provide a structured process that empowers individuals to take control of their career trajectories.
In our conversation, we dive into the importance of self-reflection, the concept of prototyping career changes, and the power of storytelling in career development. Whether you're looking to make a significant change or simply want to enhance your current role, this episode is packed with actionable advice to help you design a career that truly resonates with who you are.
In this episode, we talk about:
[02:38] Mollie’s career journey and how she founded Crew[14:11] Doing “me-search” to find your interests and uncover potential career paths[22:26] What design thinking is and how it can help with career development[29:34] How experimenting in your current role actually benefits your company[35:37] Common pitfalls of self-exploration and how to avoid them[40:48] Small ways to get started with career development[51:55] Tips to empower yourself in your careerResources:
Learn more about Crew at joinacrew.comConnect with Mollie on LinkedInBook: Working Identity by Hermania IbarraCrew Blog/Resources: joinacrew.com/blogCrew Career Design ModelConnect with me:
InstagramLinkedInYouTubeselfatwork.comProduced by NOVA Media
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Doing something new can be as daunting as it is exciting. Angela Damiani, CEO and co-founder of NEWaukee, reveals her journey over the past 15 years, growing and evolving a client services company while staying true to the core value of constant innovation. We delve into NEWaukee’s motto, “change always in all ways,” and how it shapes their approach to projects and client relationships.
In this episode, Angela shares her growth as a leader, her unique leadership style, and the challenges of managing a small, dynamic team. Join us as we explore Angela’s love for entrepreneurship, her innovative business strategies, and her commitment to leading authentically and intentionally. This episode is filled with insights and inspiration for anyone looking to navigate change, lead with empathy, and create a balanced, fulfilling career.
Resources:
Angela’s personal website: angeladamiani.comLearn more about NEWaukee at newaukee.comLearn more about Newance at newance.coConnect with Angela on LinkedInRead Managing Transitions: Making the Most of Change by William BridgesThe Nap Ministry's Rest Deck: 50 Practices to Resist Grind Culture by Tricia HerseyPrevious episodes mentioned:
Setting intentions for the year: 07. Using Your Values to Guide Your Career with Antonio GarciaBuilding a different kind of business model: 12. Using Your Voice and Challenging the Norms with Tiffany WeltonConnect with me:
InstagramLinkedInYouTubeselfatwork.comProduced by NOVA Media
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It’s undeniable that music plays a critical role in our emotional lives. Today’s guest is Sam Parvin, who went from managing music for Coca-Cola's global marketing team to creating her own successful music strategy agency, Parvin Music. In this episode, she reveals the secrets behind her career journey and how she aligns her work with her values and passions. We dive into how Sam's career journey is deeply intertwined with her love for music and her commitment to authenticity.
We'll explore the pivotal moments that shaped her career, the challenges she faced in the corporate world, and how she found her true calling as an entrepreneur. Sam shares insightful strategies on managing energy and productivity, the importance of feeling a sense of belonging at work, and how she leverages music to create powerful brand identities. You’ll leave this episode with practical tips on aligning your work to when and how you can add the most value, and learn how to set yourself up for success in your work by knowing your non-negotiables.
Resources:
Learn more about Parvin MusicFollow Sam on Instagram: @samparvinConnect with Sam Parvin on LinkedInWorking with your female cycle: Article: Why Syncing Your Business To Your Menstrual Cycle Is Key In 2021 from ForbesPodcast: Hormone Expert, Alisa Vitti, Shares How to Biohack Your Hormones and Cycle Sync Your Life For Optimal WellnessBook: The Optimized Woman: Using Your Menstrual Cycle to Achieve Success and Fulfillment by Miranda Gray Scheduling your day using Ayurveda: Podcast: 051: Why Changing Your Schedule Will Change Your Life with Ayurveda Dr Suhas KshirsagarBook: Change Your Schedule, Change Your Life by Dr. Suhas KshirsagarPrevious Episodes Mentioned:
Crafting your job to fit you better: 14. Moving Towards Your Soul’s Purpose with Priya Shah18. Finding a Way to Do The Work You Love with Michael UlloaUnderstanding yourself using Enneagram: 20. How do I find my Enneagram type? | Career Questions 21. How can I develop my emotional intelligence with the Enneagram? | Career QuestionsConnect with me:
InstagramLinkedInYouTubeselfatwork.comProduced by NOVA Media
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Where has your journey toward authenticity in your career taken you? Justin Grant’s career path has taken him from corporate leadership in retail and merchandising to entrepreneurial success and back again. In this episode, he shares how he balances creativity and data while staying true to himself in the fast-paced fashion merchandising industry.
Our conversation explores how Justin navigated transitions between companies and going back into corporate life after starting his own company. We dive into how he views career fulfillment today and how that’s changed over time. Join me as we uncover Justin's insights and how being flexible can help you build a dynamic career.
Resources:
Connect with Justin on LinkedInPsychology Today: Job, Career, Calling: Key to Happiness and Meaning at Work?DisruptHR: Stop Taking Work Personally | Sandhya SudhakarConnect with me:
InstagramLinkedInYouTubeselfatwork.comProduced by NOVA Media
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Alma Quiroga is on the hunt for her next big career opportunity, and she’s here to share the wealth of career lessons she's gathered along her journey. In our conversation, we explore how Alma’s career journey is informed by her personal insights and her passion for using storytelling as a tool to make sense of her career path. We'll trace back through her experiences, discussing what she's learned about what works best for her in a work environment and how she's leveraging this knowledge in her search for the next right fit.
If you're currently exploring new career opportunities or simply interested in how to articulate your career story authentically, this episode will offer valuable insights. Join us for a journey through the highs and lows of defining and finding success on your own terms in the workplace. You're sure to leave with a smile—and maybe a new way to tell your own career story.
Resources:
Learn more at almaquiroga.comConnect with Alma on LinkedInConnect with me:
InstagramLinkedInYouTubeselfatwork.comProduced by NOVA Media
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Welcome to a fresh episode of "Working Your Way," where today we tackle the complex and often misunderstood topic of personal branding, as part of our Career Questions series. Joining me, your host, Sandhya Sudhakar, is Cat Coffrin, brand strategist and founder of Captivating Consulting. Together, we dive deep into the essence of personal branding—not just as a tool for career success, but as a crucial component for personal well-being at work.
Today's discussion isn't about crafting a facade or a marketable persona. Instead, we explore personal branding as a journey to a clearer and stronger sense of self. We start by addressing the current challenges in the workplace that complicate our ability to truly know ourselves, discussing the external pressures that so many of us internalize along the way.
Cat and I will share our approaches to guiding clients through the internal journey of reconnecting with your sense of self, uncovering insights that aren't always obvious, and determining how to best communicate your unique value. This conversation promises to be rich with strategies and stories that illuminate the path to understanding and articulating who you are in both life and work.
So, whether you're looking to refine your professional image or seeking a deeper connection with your own identity, this episode will equip you with the knowledge and tools to begin your personal branding journey. Remember to keep a notebook handy—you won't want to miss the reflection prompts and actionable tips we're sharing today. Let's dive in and discover how to transform our self-awareness into a powerful expression of our professional selves.
In this episode, we talk about:
[03:53] The cultural identity crisis people are facing in their careers and lives[25:15] Why personal branding is so essential[29:49] Cat’s career journey and how she applied personal branding to herself[43:36] Taking an internal approach to building a personal brand: What data to use[51:20] Why people resist bringing up their past and how much to share[01:02:55] How to utilize your personal brand[01:17:29] Tools and resourcesResources:
Learn more about Cat’s work at captivatingco.comConnect with Cat on LinkedInRead Cat’s BlogListen to the Working Your Way Enneagram series:20. How do I find my Enneagram type? | Career Questions21. How can I develop my emotional intelligence with the Enneagram? | Career QuestionsReflected Best Self ExerciseCliftonStrengths Online Talent AssessmentConnect with me:
InstagramLinkedInYouTubeselfatwork.comProduced by NOVA Media
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In this episode, I'm thrilled to talk with Jemilly Castro, Vice President of Strategy at Remezcla. Jemilly opens up about the complexities of representing her cultural identity within the predominantly white corporate spaces of the advertising world. Her career journey beautifully illustrates the struggle and empowerment that come from embracing who you are in professional settings.
Jemilly discusses the early challenges of her career, where she often had to mute or exaggerate aspects of herself to fit into the expected mold of a Latina professional. These experiences spurred profound personal growth, leading her to embrace her true self without conforming to external expectations. We also delve into how Jemilly incorporates gratitude into her daily life, balancing her successful career with personal hobbies that range from scuba diving to pottery, enriching her life beyond her professional identity. Join me as we explore how Jemilly has navigated the highs and lows of authenticity in her career and how she is embracing a new, more grounded chapter of her life.
Resources:
Learn more at jemilly.comFollow Guest on Instagram: @jemillyConnect with Jemilly on LinkedInPodcast: Brené with Emily and Amelia Nagoski on Burnout and How to Complete the Stress CycleCalm: 8 gratitude exercises to cultivate a more grateful mindsetPositive Psychology: The Neuroscience of Gratitude and Effects on the BrainConnect with me:
InstagramLinkedInYouTubeselfatwork.comProduced by NOVA Media
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