Erin and Nicole meet for the 100th time on the b Cause Podcast! Well, their 101st time - and your 100th - because the first take recording was a complete hot mess. But there's a silver lining because Erin showed up at Nicole's house in person (also a hot mess) where the magic originally happened, and she kicked things off right by getting to experience the now-famous "dog-sized" treadmill. To celebrate the occasion - and being reunited (it feels so good!) - Nicole surprises Erin with a symbolic Bee/b Cause 100th episode gift (and sushi for four), and Erin...well Erin brings the wine and a non-plan. On to the celebration! As children of the 80s, they decide that Erin should host a Richard Dawson-style gameshow, something like "100,000-Dollar Pyramid" meets "Family Feud", meets "Quiz Bowl." Of course, Erin tortures Nicole first by having her guess which episodes were in the "Top 10" (by most listened to) based on Erin's cheat sheet of quotes, cryptic riddles and a host of other interesting anecdotes while reminiscing through some of the best moments of the podcast so far and even what some of their most favorite guests are up to now! (Can you figure out the episode before Nicole does?) An episode full of reflection and enjoying the trip down memory lane, Nicole wonders what the next 100 will look like and offers her own "revenge" game called "Stick or Sabotage." This game includes all kinds of ridiculous and pointless questions like, "What is something you started doing during COVID that you will keep post COVID...and one thing you will sabotage?" But just like every episode, Nicole also answers her own questions, asks even more questions and hysterics erupt as both look forward to the next 100 whatever it brings...especially all the "easter eggs" and surprises! If you like jammin' with us on the podcast, b sure to join us for more fun and inspiration! Here are some options... Follow Nicole on LinkedIn:   Follow Erin on LinkedIn:   Check out the b BRILLIANT career coaching program @   b Cause Podcast Facebook group @   We even share more crazy stuff here (you probably thought that was impossible). Get your own copy of Erin's book by searching "You Do You Ish" in amazon or going to   Take our simple, fun and insightful "What Kind of Dog Are You At Work?" by going to   We have so much fun stuff going on...we wouldn't want you to miss out - join the authenticity movement and our community by adding your email just about anywhere @   Check out our blog for more of our no-BS career advice @   We have fun and inspiring t-shirts @ DISCLAIMER: This episode is not explicit, though contains mild swearing that may be unsustainable for younger audiences.  Tweetable Comments: "We made it to 100...twice...this is our second take." "Mick was more interested in eating cookies than talking to us...which I get." "I looked around and I was like, what do people do to celebrate 100? No one has done a gameshow." "She thinks I can see that? I wear negative six corrective contact lenses." "We can't survive without the (honey) b(ee)." "There's a stuffed bear in there...on wheels." "She's not someone we let interview herself." "I'm going to unf*ck myself and do everything." "Boy, I want open-kimono on that episode." "I can't even remember my husband's aunts name so it's ok." "It's like voyeurism, it's a form of suburban pornography." "Big boob bosses?" "If you hate your garden, turn it into a bar." "That does sound familiar, and three glasses ago it might have sounded very familiar." "When you're the first of your friends to get divorced, it really makes you wonder where you fit in." I'm still holding on, but the granny panties will come out at some point." "If I'm going to be bested on my own podcast, it's going to be by her."

It can feel like such a mystery: how do some people get to the "top floors" at a company, while others stay in the lobby?  Well, we pull up one big curtain (and elevator) on that mystery this week. Erin talks with Renee Zaugg, CIO of Otis Elevator Company. It's clear from her rise that one "secret" is that people who get the big jobs lead...when they're not asked to lead.  The b Cause podcast kicks off Women's History Month sitting down with women's equality luminary and CIO of Otis Elevator Company, Renee Zaugg.  Renee is the Vice President and Chief Information Officer (CIO) at Otis Elevator Company. In addition, she serves as the Executive Sponsor for the Women in Technology employee resource group as well as the Digital Technology (DT) Energy Board employee engagement group. Prior to joining Oris, Renee served as Senior Vice President, Enterprise Infrastructure and Cloud Services at CVS Health, a Fortune 5 company.  Erin kicks off their discussion by asking Renee if she always had aspirations to be a corporate executive in Technology. Renee recalls the time-capsule letter she wrote herself in school; her aspirations were simply to travel the world. But she also knew she wanted to be a leader, and as she grew in capability and confidence, the idea of becoming an executive grew with it. Erin then asks if there's something Renee achieved that, at the time, seemed like an impossible feat. Renee talks about when she was first promoted to a vice president role. She says that being given control of a large organization, just before an acquisition, was something she never expected. She stepped into the role a bit unsure of herself, but then she thought "Of course I can do this, because who else could do it?" They talk about Renee's passion to ensure we obtain equality for women in leadership roles. When she was at Aetna, she founded their Woman's Leadership Alliance (WLA). Renee recalls being taken aback by the significant inequalities between women and men in the top positions at the company. After launching WLA, within four years they had managed to change the number of women in leadership positions from 23% to 36%. Erin then wonders what Renee's biggest fear was in her career. Renee talks about her speech impediment, which she's struggled with her entire life and that left her with a major fear of public speaking. She talks about how she (mostly) overcame that fear and how important it is to force yourself to face your fear...to act upon it so you can overcome it.  They then step into the topic of being a working mom. Erin asks Renee how she balances being a mom with her career. Renee found that setting aside time for her family was critical (and occasionally putting herself first, even though they may sound selfish). was essential to being able to have a balanced life.  Renee then tells a story about the day she received a call from the lunch-lady at her daughter's school. She asked, "Did you mean to send her with one pound of ham?" She goes on to say "It's not just me, there's a whole market now on moms who are messes." Erin then asks Renee if she can recall a time when she went against the grain and did things her way, instead of the executive way. Renee tells a story about when she went against other executives to stand up for the plan and idea she had for progression. Renee also talks about the importance of bragging, something that has never come naturally to her, but something that can be an essential device for gaining recognition for yourself, your colleagues, and your company.  Erin asks Renee if there has ever been something she would not compromise on no matter what. Renee remembers something her mom told her when she was 18: never let anyone question her integrity.  Erin then wants to know what breaks Renee's heart. The answer is simple: seeing sick children. That's why Renee has always tied herself to support certain charities.  Finally, Erin wants answers to something she's been wondering for a long time. And now that she's in the presence of the CIO of Otis Elevator Company, it's the perfect time to get answers. She ponders and asks, "Why don't elevators have an undo button?" Renee just might be the person to finally solve the problem. LinkedIn: Renee Zaugg Get your own copy by searching "You Do You Ish" in amazon or going to   Follow Nicole on LinkedIn:   Follow Erin on LinkedIn:   If you like jammin' with us on the podcast, b sure to join us for more fun and inspiration! Here are some options... Check out the b BRILLIANT career coaching program @   b Cause Podcast Facebook group @   We even share more crazy stuff here (you probably thought that was impossible). Take our simple, fun and insightful "What Kind of Dog Are You At Work?" by going to   We have so much fun stuff going on...we wouldn't want you to miss out - join the authenticity movement and our community by adding your email just about anywhere @   Check out our blog for more of our no-BS career advice @   We have fun and inspiring t-shirts @ DISCLAIMER: This episode is not explicit, though contains mild swearing that may be unsustainable for younger audiences.  Tweetable Comments: "I'm just an opportunity seeker." "Of course I can do it, because who else could?" "She said, 'I gave up having a family for my career.' So I looked right at her and said 'You're telling me I have to choose? Funny, our CEO has children, and he didn't have to choose." "When you get to the top, remember to send the elevator back down." "Pushing yourself to do it is what allows you to overcome it." "Everybody's life is a mess to some degree." "It's not just me, there's a whole market now on moms who are messes." "There are sacrifices when you're a parent. Their world is their world and you've just got to fit in where it makes sense." "The best and quickest way to get a seat at the table is to create it yourself." "You might not be the smartest person in the room, but you don't let anyone question your integrity. You can't get that back." "You just made elevators so sexy and cool."

Are you at least a bit curious about all the buzz surrounding Erin's new book, "You Do You(ish)?" This week Nicole gives you a glimpse in between the book covers by hosting a virtual book club made up of fans and friends of the show to discuss the recent release! Oh yeah, and she lets Erin (mostly) listen in too.  Nicole kicks off the introductions by inviting the guests to think of one word to describe Erin. They throw out...determined, approachable, savvy, energizing, and magnetic.  She asks the guests what they learned from reading the book. We hear insights and personal takes on authenticity, on the book, and what they have taken away from it.  Then they dive into the Sucky Songs, talking about the things we all tell ourselves that hold us back from doing what we really want. Thinking they can't prioritize a job AND a family, thinking they can never be fully authentic at work, thinking the only way to get ahead is to forgo sleep and relaxation, to never switch off from work.  They discuss what they think, or had always thought, their weaknesses were, but how changing the way you view yourself, your place where you are, how you can utilize your authentic self to turn those not-so-weak-weaknesses into very definite strengths of character.  Why are we still talking about inauthenticity in the workplace? Why in 2021 is this still an issue? Could it be fear, sacrificing authenticity on the road to success and money? Could it be a lack of diversity in leadership roles, forcing underrepresented groups to try and fit in rather than stand out? Erin jumps in with a question for the group, asking them what their thoughts are on her definition of authenticity and if they have any critical comments to make, spurring an interesting conversation on everyone's own ideas on Erin's writing. What else could be included and how authenticity could be defined from other's perspectives.  They finish by discussing who they would offer the book to plus who couldn't handle the book.  Get your own copy by searching "You Do You Ish" in amazon or going to   Follow Nicole on LinkedIn:   Follow Erin on LinkedIn:   If you like jammin' with us on the podcast, b sure to join us for more fun and inspiration! Here are some options... Check out the b BRILLIANT career coaching program @   b Cause Podcast Facebook group @   We even share more crazy stuff here (you probably thought that was impossible). Take our simple, fun and insightful "What Kind of Dog Are You At Work?" by going to   We have so much fun stuff going on...we wouldn't want you to miss out - join the authenticity movement and our community by adding your email just about anywhere @   Check out our blog for more of our no-BS career advice @   We have fun and inspiring t-shirts @ DISCLAIMER: This episode is not explicit, though contains mild swearing that may be unsustainable for younger audiences.  Tweetable Comments: "I put Erin in an uncomfortable and awkward position? Welcome to my life." "Authenticity is about exposing who you are, when people least expect it." "You shouldn't not do something because you hate the way it was done before. Instead, do it your own way." "I loved how human the book was." "I think humility is the first thing we ought to bring to the party." "I've had more time to think about how I can affect other people's lives, and it's changed mine." "I've kind of fallen in love with storytelling." "Be in your own skin, be comfortable, be confident." "Just let that stupid sucky song go." "There's a fear to fit in. People sacrifice their authenticity on the road to success and money." "I think there's still not enough diversity at leadership levels." "The book injects a sense of fun into work." "Let's form the army. Let's defeat them." "Energy is contagious, either you affect people or you infect people." - T. Harv Eker.

Feedback is gold, right? Well, sometimes. And sometimes you have to find your own way to turn what might feel a bit more like backfeed into your own fuel.  This week Erin and Nicole catch up to contemplate their WTFs and authentic-so-hards for the week. But one moment sticks out the most. What do you do with feedback that clearly misses the mark? Well, other than talk about it on public podcat, you can also take that pile of sh*t and make your own fuel out of it! Erin Haztikostas and Nicole Licata Grant meet for another "How Was Your Week?" episode. Nicole starts with the problems of Zoom meetings on repeat; eye twitches, ice cream cones, bathroom calls. You know, general Zoom fatigue.  Ern asks Nicole for an update on the dog treadmill, a treadmill that immediately tried to throw Nicole through her own wall and has since been relegated to static artwork.  Nicole talks about her vision board progress and how you can join in with the fun by joining the b Cause Facebook group. they let (almost) everyone in! Nicole has also been invited to talk at a conference, and she has some, shall we say, interesting ideas on how to portray authenticity during her talk. "Live from the Gyno!" is likely going to be the title of her next panel discussion.  Erin tells a story about her authetic-so-hard moment, taking a Zoom call but the IGW in her had no time for pants. Followed by Nicole's story of joining a Zoom meeting mid-shower, because this is the world we live in now - a world where, as Nicole puts it, showering, working, and commuting, are no longer separate activities. They both share recent stories of having to endure mansplaining at work. Nicole "had to" have the calendar system explained to her, and Erin needed to hear about how she needed to develop a visual identity for her authenticity business (like, say what?!) This then leads into a conversation on how to give feedback, it's great to give feedback, but there is a line where it becomes condescending, especially if you make assumptions that the other person has no clue what they're doing. Erin's mansplainer did have a positive though, he acted as a catalyst for a discussion bringing together many of the things Erin talks about in her book. Inequality, authenticity, and as Nicole puts it: being a Maverick and not an Iceman.  To preorder Erin's book You Do You(ish):   Follow Nicole on LinkedIn:   Follow Erin on LinkedIn:   If you like jammin' with us on the podcast, b sure to join us for more fun and inspiration! Here are some options... Check out the b BRILLIANT career coaching program @   b Cause Podcast Facebook group @   We even share more crazy stuff here (you probably thought that was impossible). Take our simple, fun and insightful "What Kind of Dog Are You At Work?" by going to   We have so much fun stuff going on...we wouldn't want you to miss out - join the authenticity movement and our community by adding your email just about anywhere @   Check out our blog for more of our no-BS career advice @   We have fun and inspiring t-shirts @ DISCLAIMER: This episode is not explicit, though contains mild swearing that may be unsustainable for younger audiences.  Tweetable Comments: "Feedback is sometimes just backfeed." "It's a process to dry my hair and not look like a wet rat." "There was a time when showering, working, and commuting were separate activities." "I don't know anyone who achieved big by magically waking up one morning put into the right body." "Dreaming your way into success usually has strategy and planning behind it." "Always give feedback, be authentic, serve people." "I'm happy to have gone through that cycle, and I'm happy that others can find their way through it too." "Go be Maverick in Top Gun, screw Iceman." "You know you're a good leader when people follow you out of curiosity." - Colin Powell "We all need a little exorcism once in a while."

What if fear and faith were binary? Ask yourself every time you set out on something new: "Do I choose fear or do I choose faith?" And no, it can't be a mix. While making anything binary is typically not our jam, this week's guest stopped Erin in her tracks when she talked about fear and failure and being mutually exclusive. What would change in your life if you had to choose? Andrea Hawkins, the owner of Berkins Blend Café (Erin's favorite coffee shop) and CEO of Leading Culture Solutions, talks with Erin Hatzikostas about everything from her incredible intersection to find her husband to how she believes diversity is the answer to many of her company's goals. Essentially, they talk coffee, culture, and community. Erin kicks off by asking Andrea about her story and journey to marry her husband. It's a story full of chance meetings and intersections that both led to marriage and to Berkins Blend. But it wasn't all easy. In the midst of trying to open a coffee shop, Andrea got two job offers at the same time, so after helping her husband set-up and open a business, she immediately jumped on a plane to start a new job, flying back and forth every weekend between her work and her business.  Erin then asks Andrea how she and her husband were able to get past the inertia of starting a business and begin to do something they were truly passionate about. Andrea talks about how they built a supportive relationship over time that has massively helped them, both personally and professionally. Andrea discusses her desire to change the way companies approach diversity and inclusion...to move away from it being a separate strategy, and instead approach new strategies with diversity and inclusion fully engrained in the process. Erin asks: "What's the difference between a company who can enact change, and one who stays put?" Andrea says the first thing is a real commitment from the top, putting money behind it, and deliberately incorporating it into strategies. Following this, she also talks about the importance of executives expanding their network. She says, "You have to get out there and be uncomfortable." Erin asks her how everyone cna feel like they're making an impact and changing things at work, even if they're not a CEO. Andrea says that everyone can bring a unique perspective to the table. everyone has their own authenticity, and everyone struggles with who they are and why they are here, but if you find what works for you, you will be able to bring so much more to the table. Andrea shares a story of when she had a moment of clarity about who she was and what she should be doing, when a masseuse told her "You cannot live in fear and faith, so choose one." They close by talking about how Andrea managed studying, working, and raising her daughter. At one point she had four jobs, worked night shifts, and studied during the day so that she was able to be in a position to make choices, and not have choices choose her. She now instills the same mentality and attitude in her daughter, who she also wants to grow up with the ability to choose a life for herself.  Get in touch with Andrea, or even find her for a coffee: Berkins Blend Café: 1003 Hebron Ave, Glastonbury, CT % 21 Oak Street, Hartford, CT To preorder Erin's book You Do You(ish):   Follow Nicole on LinkedIn:   Follow Erin on LinkedIn:   If you like jammin' with us on the podcast, b sure to join us for more fun and inspiration! Here are some options... Check out the b BRILLIANT career coaching program @   b Cause Podcast Facebook group @   We even share more crazy stuff here (you probably thought that was impossible). Take our simple, fun and insightful "What Kind of Dog Are You At Work?" by going to   We have so much fun stuff going on...we wouldn't want you to miss out - join the authenticity movement and our community by adding your email just about anywhere @   Check out our blog for more of our no-BS career advice @   We have fun and inspiring t-shirts @ DISCLAIMER: This episode is not explicit, though contains mild swearing that may be unsustainable for younger audiences.  Tweetable Comments: "Chance meetings and intersections, I think that's what life is really about." "I think I'm missing a strand of DNA around fear." "I'm responsible for my happiness. I'm responsible for the bad decisions I make over and over." "If you looked at my resume you would say 'who is she?! What is she trying to be?" "I love to take chaos and create order." "If I see people from different countries, with age diversity, gender diversity, and I see people with different abilities. Then I know you'll get some innovation out of that." "Everyone can bring a new perspective to the table." "My authenticity is about generosity." "I see people struggling the most with who they are." "You cannot live in fear and faith." "You need to do well, so you can have choices, and choices don't choose you."

Do you have an addiction to productivity and perfection? Or maybe you're addicted to starting something and not finishing it. Whatever it is, none of us are perfect. We all have these micro "addictions" that are holding us back. The good news is that once you recognize what addiction(s) are holding you back, moving away from them and towards a new addiction is not only possible; it's actually fun! "For so long I've defined change as somehow being the result of failure. I realized it's the result of success>" - Nicole This week Erin Hatzikostas and Nicole Licata Grant kick things off by getting Nicole's completely authentic reaction to her first read (skim!) of Erin's book. You Do You(ish). It quickly made it to the top of Nicole's present list for everyone she knows...everyone.  Nicole Share's great news - her dad's heart surgery was successful and he's recovering well. Nicole goes on to tell some funny anecdotes from the recovery process. While there is good news for Nicole's dad, there is also the sad news that her grandma has covid, but she's made it to 101 years old, and from the stories Nicole has about her, we don't think that's changing anytime soon.  Erin moves on to ask Nicole about what's been lighting her fire recently. Nicole explains how she saw a video posted by one of their friends (and podcast guest #58), discussing her addiction to perfection and productivity, which was the message and spark Nicole needed.  With this positive outlook, she has started to contemplate change. She tells Erin that she's had an epiphany. She used to think of change as a result of failure. She now realizes that when things are going well, that is the best time to think about switching things up.  They start talking about finding your own way, your own trigger. What works for one person might not work for someone else and that's ok. Finally, they talk about the difference between what you want to do, and how you want to feel, and how the accomplishments, goals, and actions, might not be as attached to those feelings as we think.  To preorder Erin's book You Do You(ish):   Follow Nicole on LinkedIn:   Follow Erin on LinkedIn:   If you like jammin' with us on the podcast, b sure to join us for more fun and inspiration! Here are some options... Check out the b BRILLIANT career coaching program @   b Cause Podcast Facebook group @   We even share more crazy stuff here (you probably thought that was impossible). Take our simple, fun and insightful "What Kind of Dog Are You At Work?" by going to   We have so much fun stuff going on...we wouldn't want you to miss out - join the authenticity movement and our community by adding your email just about anywhere @   Check out our blog for more of our no-BS career advice @   We have fun and inspiring t-shirts @ DISCLAIMER: This episode is not explicit, though contains mild swearing that may be unsustainable for younger audiences.  Tweetable Comments: A lot of these books give you the economic policies of why you're f*cked but not how to unf*ck yourself." "I said 'Mom what did you do, did you take dad to the taxidermist?' and she says 'Don't (F*cking) tempt me'." I need major surgery to improve my eating prospects right now. "I'm giving side-eyes to 2021. I'm not convinced it's being straight with us." "The best time to contemplate change is when things are good." "For so long I've defined change as somehow being the result of failure. I realized it's the result of success.  "I look at my vision board every morning instead of the coffee machine and think 'You're going to do something for yourself today." "The best way to finally make that change is to figure out what's the one thing that's going to help you start to create an addiction to something else." "You need to find your own way and your own trigger." "How do you make small tweaks every single day to try and get to someplace bigger, better, or different?" "The weeds can be a fun place to hide. You just can't stay there for too long." "We've got a load of old smoked salami, and it can be good, but sometimes the salami overpowers the cheese." "Who knows what will happen by the end of this week. I'm either super stable or running f*cking nuts." "Give me a couple of twizzlers and a pot of coffee and I can do that for you."

Do you ever feel like you just don't fit the corporate mold? Like anywhere...or in any way? Well, Scott Mason knows all too well how you're feeling, and he's determined to help people just like you find power in your authenticity. Listen in for inspiration on how you can create your own "Funkytown" and ensure you go on the journey of your life.  Erin Haztikostas interviews Scott Mason, a former lawyer turned consultant and motivational speaker. Scott was adopted by African-Americans and raised in rural Middle America in an overwhelmingly white social milieu. Scott grew up far outside of any conceivable social box and knows all to well what it's like to wrestle with the concept of being your authentic self. Erin asks Scott about his early life, and Scott describes growing up in an area where he was misunderstood and how he had a unique perspective to view social stigmas (and experience many)through a lens that many people can't even imagine.  Erin then asks about his journey from Kansas to Minnesota and then to New York city. They talk about what drove him to become a lawyer...whether it was something he always had the confidence to do or not. Scott talks about early foundational experiences of his life and how they helped shape his decision.  Scott discusses wanting to be a lawyer, and the difference between the idea we have of a lawyer's job and the actual role, and how different they are from each other. Even with that difference though, it created a drive in him that helped motivate him to keep pushing forwards and outwards. After graduating from a liberal arts college, Scott applied to Law School where he truly began to realize not only the difference between the ideal of a lawyer and the reality, but also the reality of the environment he would be in and the people surrounding him. Scott talks about the different types of people he has met in his many experiences: lawyers, politicians, public servants, and non-profit workers.  He goes into detail about the joys and difficulties of working in the non-profit world, the judgments and stigmas we hold culturally for people in different situations, how we often lack understanding as to why someone may have ended up where they are, and why they need help and guidance instead of criticism.  When Erin prompts Scott to share some career advice from his experiences, he tells a story of one of his bosses from a government agency who said some truly unforgivable thing to him. So, Scott wants you all to remember that whatever got you in the door is also what will help you survive in the outside world. Erin asks Scott about a moment of realization in his life. Scott started a business with a partner, and after deciding to leave he took the chance to "enter the providential river". Looking back on his experiences, he realized he had been asking the wrong questions and looking in the wrong places. He started thinking instead as to how he could take his experiences, his gifts and his skills, and have them be of service.  Now he has a vision, a vision where heroes go on journeys of their lives together. He wants to build a space where people can connect to find their higher purpose, to build a better self and a better world.  Erin prompts Scott for some of his suggestions on what can help people get on that journey. He firsts suggests complementing people on a good job, we so often only comment on the negatives, assuming that pointing out failures will help people improve. But we underestimate the power that comes with people uplifting other people.  He follows this by telling us that the possibilities for the future are better than we can imagine, and our inability to see that is our own limitation. So, he says, "Step into new opportunities." Finally, he wants you to understand that nothing is permanent, which sounds scary, but is actually a thing of beauty.  Website: Podcast:   To preorder Erin's book You Do You(ish):   Follow Nicole on LinkedIn:   Follow Erin on LinkedIn:   If you like jammin' with us on the podcast, b sure to join us for more fun and inspiration! Here are some options... Check out the b BRILLIANT career coaching program @   b Cause Podcast Facebook group @   We even share more crazy stuff here (you probably thought that was impossible). Take our simple, fun and insightful "What Kind of Dog Are You At Work?" by going to   We have so much fun stuff going on...we wouldn't want you to miss out - join the authenticity movement and our community by adding your email just about anywhere @   Check out our blog for more of our no-BS career advice @   We have fun and inspiring t-shirts @ DISCLAIMER: This episode is not explicit, though contains mild swearing that may be unsustainable for younger audiences.  Tweetable Comments: "My parents did not like me being gay, and they were concerned about the way I looked because I might acclimate into the white community too much. Which was odd, because I never felt I could do that because of who I was." "Confidence comes from being in touch with your authentic self." "One of the foundational things in my life was the song "Funkytown"." "It was an environment where pedigree, elitism, and background were much less disguised and much more a part of the social hierarchy." "What motivates people can both define who they are and further silo who they become." "We have a tendency as a culture to make judgments on people's economic choices or what might be happening as a consequence in their lives."  "I feel the inability to process our emotions properly is something that perpetuates a lot of dysfunction." "I realized if I was going to be focussed on service, then my purpose would be infinitely easier to figure out." "I realized I was participating in the creation of my own nightmare." "The possibilities for the future are better than you can imagine. Your inability to see that is your own limitation." "Nothing is permanent. That's a scary concept, but it's also beautiful."

Work has such funny shit, why aren't we laughing at it more?  What's better than separating men and women at work to try and solve the issues facing women at work? Well, how about not separating us? From the co-hosts of the b Cause podcast with Erin & Nicole, they take to the couch to say the things you are thinking but are too afraid to say out loud (well, at least on the internet.) Check out more on our b Authentic inc Youtube Channel:  https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCj-QCA1-XckiHxlCCflzH-g To preorder Erin's book You Do You(ish):   Follow Nicole on LinkedIn:   Follow Erin on LinkedIn:   If you like jammin' with us on the podcast, b sure to join us for more fun and inspiration! Here are some options... Check out the b BRILLIANT career coaching program @   b Cause Podcast Facebook group @   We even share more crazy stuff here (you probably thought that was impossible). Take our simple, fun and insightful "What Kind of Dog Are You At Work?" by going to   We have so much fun stuff going on...we wouldn't want you to miss out - join the authenticity movement and our community by adding your email just about anywhere @   Check out our blog for more of our no-BS career advice @   We have fun and inspiring t-shirts @ DISCLAIMER: This episode is not explicit, though contains mild swearing that may be unsustainable for younger audiences.

Who in this world doesn't look at a 183-line, Excel spreadsheet business operating plan and intuitively sprint in the other direction? Or, worse, want to throw up at the thought of a personal plan that you're supposed to have in place if you ever want to get anywhere special!? In this crazy, complex world, we underestimate the power of more simplistic, inspiring, get-you-into-the-flow tools to ensure you keep growing and achieve the success (happiness, money, love, etc.) that you deserve. The good news is that Erin & Nicole are going to help you switch your mindset on goal setting in a way that ensures you make it to the "South Pole" (without perishing!) So, we have to start here: who actually thought 2021 would be any different?! Just a week into 2021, Erin Hatzikostas and Nicole Licata Grant sit down to first discuss the recent events in Washington D.C. Nicole tells the story of the first insurrection she ever witnessed (some 25+ years ago) during the split of Czechoslovakia whilst she was in Prague on a school trip to understand the events of the Holocaust.  They discuss the motivations people might have for such actions, what they could hope to gain from it, and whether they are fighting for someone who would "break bread" with them or not. Moving away from politics, Nicole talks about her father's unfortunate, upcoming heart surgery and the surprisingly comical story of her reaction to his surgery news.  The big topic this week is one that comes from an audience suggestion: goal setting! (Listeners: keep the suggestions coming!) Erin talks about three strategies that listeners can replace their stuffy, crusty, uninspiring, and traditional strategies with.   1) Instead of a New Year's Resolution, pick one ord for the year. This helps ground you when things seem tough or out of control. 2) Pick one obsession. This is something that if you focus on it and crush it, will change everything.  3) Write your Future Diary. Create a 3D(ish) vision and story of your future you and future life. There's a lot that's been covered this week, and by the looks of 2021 so far, there's going to be a whole lot more to come! To preorder Erin's book You Do You(ish):   Follow Nicole on LinkedIn:   Follow Erin on LinkedIn:   If you like jammin' with us on the podcast, b sure to join us for more fun and inspiration! Here are some options... Check out the b BRILLIANT career coaching program @   b Cause Podcast Facebook group @   We even share more crazy stuff here (you probably thought that was impossible). Take our simple, fun and insightful "What Kind of Dog Are You At Work?" by going to   We have so much fun stuff going on...we wouldn't want you to miss out - join the authenticity movement and our community by adding your email just about anywhere @   Check out our blog for more of our no-BS career advice @   We have fun and inspiring t-shirts @ DISCLAIMER: This episode is not explicit, though contains mild swearing that may be unsustainable for younger audiences.  Tweetable Comments: "Maybe May can be the new January this year." "I would never fight for anybody who would refuse to break bread with me." "That's my mom, she's totally cute and depressed." "Maybe I can find inspiration on this bottle of Gorilla Glue." "What is the one thing that if I do it now, it will change everything?" "Shit is outta whack, and I need some space to re-whack it." "The power behind the space is that it's the only way to create the true magic." "I like the processes and when the process sucks it fucks with me." "Be unconditional."

Nicole kicks of the new year, interviewing the celebrated entrepreneur Kara Goldin, Founder and CEO of Hint Inc, the lifestyle company "committed to making it easy and enjoyable for consumers to live a healthy life." Known for producing the leading unsweetened flavored water, offerings have expanded with the recent launch of hint sunscreen. Kara is also an author, a motivational speaker, a podcaster, a mother and much more. Kara's journey was anything but uncomplicated, detailed in her 2020 breakout book "Undaunted: Overcoming Doubts and Doubters", which has landed on the Wallstreet Journal and the Amazon Bestsellers List, profiled by Nasdaq and receiving many more acolades. In "Undaunted", Kara though no stranger to success, details how she found herself a determined but "accidental entrepreneur" - an outsider to the beverage industry, new to raising venture capital, and selling an approach well outside the norm with consumer products. In discussion with Nicole, Kara shares her story and insights of her entrepreneurial journey for good. Already a respected Tech Executive, most recently with America Online, where she built the e-commerce and shopping partnerships, Kara became passionate about her business concept for Hint after her fourth child was born, and finding that as much as she tried with diet, lifestyle and exercise, her health was actually in serious and undiagnosed decline. In a moment of last resort, Kara decided to replace her Diet Coke habit with something else. The problem being Kara didn't like drinking plain water and in searching for a healthy and natural diest soda alternative she realized it didn't exist. Kara started adding fruit in water and two weeks cold-turkey from Diet Coke, she was on the road to recovery and the idea for Hint, Inc. was born.  When Kara started Hint, consumers and investors were not yet talking about purpose-led for-profit companies, but Kara knew that she could provide not only a consumable product that customers wanted, but provide a product they didn't yet know they needed in the pursuit of a better life, not just momentary satisfaction.  Market and purpose identified, Kara discusses setting out to make Hint exist for the masses, but discovering the difficulty of trying to launch a product with no experience or connections in the beverage industry despite what she knew she could achieve and a solid reputation. She shares how she stayed resolute, despite no easy path to bringing Hint to consumers and many more challenges as the company became established, including a life-changing disaster turned all-important discovery in her partnership with Starbucks. Out of doubt and disaster: triumph.  Kara, wildly successful with Hint, still encountered challenges in sharing her story in "Undaunted", limited by unfounded concerns that the book would only sell to other female entrepreneurs - a too-niche market, sadly. Once again Kara's instinct proved right hearing from many men (and women) about the life-limiting doubts and doubters shaping their experiences, and how her story inspired them to keep going. Looking ahead, Kara shares many insights on how the events of 2020 are reshaping what it means to achieve healthier ways of living, and how Hint is thinking about serving that greater purpose. Nicole also asks Kara to share some thoughts and advice for listeners, as well as goals she has set herself for 2021 - the year we've all been waiting for!  Listen and embrace "Undaunted" as your inspiration for 2021! Here's how you can find Kara: Social Media: @karagoldin Website/Book: To preorder Erin's book You Do You(ish):   Follow Nicole on LinkedIn:   Follow Erin on LinkedIn:   If you like jammin' with us on the podcast, b sure to join us for more fun and inspiration! Here are some options... Check out the b BRILLIANT career coaching program @   b Cause Podcast Facebook group @   We even share more crazy stuff here (you probably thought that was impossible). Take our simple, fun and insightful "What Kind of Dog Are You At Work?" by going to   We have so much fun stuff going on...we wouldn't want you to miss out - join the authenticity movement and our community by adding your email just about anywhere @   Check out our blog for more of our no-BS career advice @   We have fun and inspiring t-shirts @ DISCLAIMER: This episode is not explicit, though contains mild swearing that may be unsustainable for younger audiences.  Tweetable Comments: "I went looking for a product, and I realized it didn't exist." "I call myself an accidental entrepreneur." "I saw a gap in the market and I acted on it." "I didn't know if I could do it, but I knew I could try." "I had no experience, so most people just wanted to hang the phone up on me." "I've heard more from men than from women about having doubts in their life." "It's about being ok with potentially failing at certain points along the way." "We hear about the entrepreneurs that are unicorns or failures. But there's a lot in between." "Customers say, 'should we buy from you or buy from Costco?' and we say, 'wherever you want.'" "We sell to stores because we want consumers to have access to it." "With this year's situation, people are really starting to think about what they should be putting into their body." "You're like a gateway product for good." "You have to figure out what you are interested in doing every single day."