Back2Basics: Reconnecting to the essence of YOU podcast

November 23, 2024 E279: Leigh Esposito - Don't regret the Journey

Learn more about Leigh at: Leigh Esposito | Author, Coach, Tarotist

Episode Highlights

Leigh Esposito’s Origin Story:

● Early Life and Influences: Raised by Italian-American parents, Leigh’s upbringing was

shaped by her family's culture and values. Although she grew up in various parts of the

U.S., including the suburbs of Philadelphia and Southern California, her cultural roots

played a pivotal role in her life and eventually inspired her work as a writer.

● Career in Law: Initially, Leigh pursued a career in law, believing it to be a stable

profession that matched her skills in communication and critical thinking. However, she

soon realized that the legal field didn’t align with her passions, describing it as "dry" and

lacking the creative stimulation she craved.

The Shift to Writing and Coaching:

● Pursuing a Second Act: In 2010, Leigh left her law career and embarked on a journey

to follow her dreams. This transition didn’t happen overnight—she spent years honing

her craft as an author, developing a unique coaching practice, and aligning her life with

her values.

● Coaching Style and Philosophy: Leigh brings her background in law into her coaching,

combining the analytical approach of a litigator with a creative mindset. Her coaching

focuses on guiding clients through major life transitions, helping them tap into their

dreams and achieve fulfillment in their “second acts.” Leigh’s approach resonates with

people who want to explore new possibilities while still balancing their existing

responsibilities.

Embracing Tarot as a Tool for Insight:

● Discovering Tarot: While researching her debut novel The Godmother, Leigh became

fascinated with tarot and began using it as a personal tool for reflection and insight. Over

time, she developed an expertise in tarot, integrating it into her coaching practice.

● Tarot's Role in Coaching: Leigh uses tarot not as a means of predicting the future but

as a method of uncovering hidden emotions, perspectives, and motivations. Each tarot

reading becomes a conversation starter, helping her clients unlock aspects of

themselves they may not have acknowledged.

● Influence on Writing: Leigh’s second novel is set in the world of tarot, blending

mysticism with romance and fantasy, inspired by her love for the introspective nature of

tarot cards.

Insights on the Sicilian Experience and Heritage:

● Sicilian Heritage: Both Leticia and Leigh share a deep connection to Sicily. For Leigh,

Sicily represents both her cultural roots and the inspiration for her novel The Godmother.

She celebrates Sicilian culture by organizing retreats on the island, where she introduces

participants to its rich history, stunning architecture, and unique traditions.

● ThemesinTheGodmother: Leigh’s novel explores the idea of a strong

Sicilian-American woman in a position of power, challenging stereotypes. Her

protagonist, a “godmother” figure, isn’t involved in crime but uses her influence and

resources to help others—a twist on the traditional mafia narrative.

● Retreats in Sicily: Through these retreats, Leigh invites others to experience the beauty

and complexities of Sicilian life, from its ancient baroque architecture to its vibrant,

multi-faceted communities.

Key Messages from the Episode

1. Follow Your Passion While Maintaining Balance

● Leigh emphasizes that it’s possible to pursue a passion without abandoning one’s

current responsibilities. She encourages listeners to integrate their interests into daily

life, even if it’s just dedicating a few hours a week to that pursuit.

2. The Power of Coaching and Mentorship

● BothLeigh and Leticia discuss the transformative power of coaching and mentorship.

Leigh believes that having a coach can make a huge difference, especially when it

comes to accountability and support. This guidance can push people to take concrete

steps toward their dreams, no matter how daunting they seem.

3. Taking Practical Steps Towards Fulfillment

● Leigh shares advice on making small, consistent efforts toward a goal rather than waiting

for a perfect moment to make a big change. By building momentum through manageable

steps, individuals can gradually transition to a more fulfilling path.

4. Blending Personal Interests with Professional Goals

● Leigh’s journey shows the value of combining personal passions (such as writing and

tarot) with a professional approach, creating a career that feels authentic and uniquely

hers. She advises others to explore ways to incorporate their unique skills and interests

into their work.

Upcoming Projects and Ways to Connect with Leigh

● Writing Workshop: Leigh is leading a 12-week writing workshop designed for

individuals who want to bring their book ideas to life. Participants will work on creating a

significant portion of their novel, with Leigh’s guidance on everything from idea

development to the first draft.

● SecondNovel: Currently, Leigh is in the process of writing her second novel, a romance

fantasy inspired by tarot. She plans to document her creative journey on social media,

giving readers an inside look at the writing process.

● StayUpdated: For updates on Leigh’s work, including her writing workshop and other

projects, listeners can follow her on social media and sign up for her mailing list on her

website.

Memorable Quotes from the Episode

● OnFollowing Your Dreams:

“You don’t need to quit your day job to feel more fulfilled. Sometimes, it’s about finding a

way to integrate that second act with the first.”

● OntheRoleofaCoach:

“A coach is there to keep you accountable, inspired, and moving forward. They help you

see your potential and take steps you might not take on your own.”

● OnSelf-Discovery Through Tarot:

“Tarot is about excavating mysteries. The greatest mystery we’re trying to uncover is

ourselves.”

● OnFinding Joy in the Creative Process:

“Being an author is like playing in a sandbox every day. It’s a journey of exploration, and

I couldn’t be happier.

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