What if I told you the job you thought was your forever was just your starting point? Learn how this former teacher went from shaping young minds to shaping personal brands—proving that success is meant to evolve. 
In this episode of Beyond the Quo, host Stacey Luces interviews Daniel Wakefield, a former high school science teacher turned headshot photographer, coach, and entrepreneur. Daniel shares his inspiring journey and how the skills he acquired in his previous career laid the foundation for his new ventures. They discuss the challenges and rewards of navigating such a significant career pivot, the concept of 'expression coaching' in photography, and the importance of building a 'Hype Tornado' around your business. Daniel also delves into the importance of teaching foundational business skills and personal integrity to his children and how they can shape their future. Tune in to gain actionable insights on overcoming self-doubt, embracing messy action, and redefining personal and professional success.

🎧 In this episode:
•        00:51 From Classroom to Camera: Career Shift
•        04:25 The Leap into Entrepreneurship
•        06:17 Building a Business from Passion
•        13:17 Networking and Sales Strategies
•        25:41 The Importance of Authenticity in Photos
•        32:07 The Concept of Hype Tornado
•        39:55 Creating a Lasting Legacy

💡 Key Takeaways:

• Your Skills Are More Transferable Than You Think - Daniel’s journey from high school science teacher to headshot photographer, coach, and entrepreneur highlights how skills from one chapter of life can build the foundation for something new. Many professionals feel trapped in their careers but don’t recognize they have more options than they think.
• Curiosity & Resourcefulness Are Key to Growth - Daniel didn’t have a business background when he started Top Tier Headshots. Instead of feeling paralyzed by not knowing everything, he remained curious, sought mentors, and figured it out along the way. The ability to ask questions, seek advice, and take action—even imperfect action—accelerated his success.
• The Hype Tornado: Creating Business Momentum - A successful brand doesn’t just rely on good service—it’s about creating hype and momentum.
  
  

You’ve already done the quo—now it’s time to go beyond.
🔥 Feeling inspired? Don’t keep it to yourself!
•        Subscribe, share and follow Beyond the Quo and I’d deeply appreciate your five-star rating so more people can listen and learn!

✨ Connect with Stacey Luces:
•        Free Global Community - Rising Beyond Power Collective: https://www.skool.com/risingbeyondglobalcommunity/about

📩 Connect with Daniel:
•        LinkedIn/Instagram: @ toptierheadshots
•        Website: DanielWakefield.co

What if your need for perfectionism and self-abandonment go hand in hand? Many high-achievers have built their success by prioritizing everyone else’s needs over their own. But what happens when the validation fades? Burnout, chronic stress, and a feeling of emptiness that no promotion or paycheck can fill.
In this episode of Beyond the Quo, host Stacey Luces sits down with Dr. Kelly Kessler, a licensed physical therapist and transformation coach, to explore how self-abandonment and perfectionism sabotage success. Through Kelly's personal journey and professional expertise, discover how to reconnect with your inner strength, prioritize self-worth, and transform chronic stress into inner peace. Kelly shares actionable strategies for tuning into your body, setting boundaries, and navigating the emotional complexities of personal growth. This episode is a heartfelt conversation on redefining success, maintaining integrity with oneself, and finding the courage to live authentically.

🎧 In this episode:
•        01:20 Understanding Self-Abandonment
•        03:34 The Impact of Perfectionism
•        07:29 The Importance of Self-Integrity
•        14:21 Tuning into Your Body
•        24:16 A Moment of Realization
•        26:57 Transformational Shifts
•        28:54 Embracing Discomfort
•        39:35 Owning Your Power

💡 Key Takeaways:

• Your body keeps score—even if you ignore it. Ignoring stress, neglecting rest, and silencing your needs leads to serious health consequences. Autoimmune issues, chronic pain, hair loss, your body will keep sending signals until you listen.
• Success isn’t just about achievement, it’s about alignment. We chase external milestones hoping they’ll bring happiness, only to find ourselves exhausted and unfulfilled at the finish line. True success comes from aligning your actions with your values, not society’s checklist.
• You will grieve as you grow. As you set boundaries and choose yourself, some relationships will shift—or end. Not everyone will celebrate your evolution, and that’s okay. Growth requires letting go of what no longer serves you.
• The smallest shifts create the biggest transformations. Healing doesn’t happen overnight. It starts with small, intentional choices—breathwork, hydration, movement, saying no when you mean it. The key is consistency, not perfection.

You’ve already done the quo—now it’s time to go beyond.
🔥 Feeling inspired? Don’t keep it to yourself!
•        Subscribe, share and follow Beyond the Quo and I’d deeply appreciate your five-star rating so more people can listen and learn!

✨ Connect with Stacey Luces:
•        Free Global Community - Rising Beyond Power Collective: https://www.skool.com/risingbeyondglobalcommunity/about

📩 Connect with Kelly:
•        LinkedIn/Instagram: @drkellykessler
•        Website: optimalyouhealthandwellness.com 

What if your past experiences—no matter how painful—were preparing you for your true purpose? 
In this episode of Beyond the Quo, host Stacey Luces delves into the type of courage, leadership and authenticity it takes to tackle the alarming issue of human trafficking, a $150 billion criminal industry affecting over 27.6 million people globally. 

Stacey is joined by Alex Ortiz, the Director of Development and Human Trafficking Regional Advocacy at the FLITE Center, a transformative organization providing education, housing, and employment resources to vulnerable youth. Alex’s journey from corporate leadership to nonprofit advocacy is a powerful testament to what it means to redefine leadership—not as a climb to the top, but as a commitment to lifting others up. His personal experiences with trauma and abuse fuel his passion for making a tangible impact.

Together, they discuss the importance of awareness, advocacy, and systemic change to support and protect these at-risk groups. Tune in to understand the scale of the problem and how community efforts can make a difference.

🎧 In this episode:
•        01:46 The Reality of Human Trafficking in the U.S.
•        06:35 Alex's Journey and Career Transformation
•        23:13 Supporting Vulnerable Youth: How You Can Help
•        29:24 Empowering Nonprofit Leaders: A Retreat Experience
•        30:21 Leading Courageously: Self-Leadership and Volunteering
•        32:52 Matriarchal Influence: Strength and Empathy
•        40:40 Finding Purpose: Nonprofit Work and Personal Growth

💡 Key Takeaways:

• Human trafficking is a $150 billion criminal industry, impacting over 27.6 million people worldwide. Vulnerable youth, especially those in foster care and the LGBTQ+ community, are at an alarmingly higher risk.
• Many people assume human trafficking is a distant issue, but it happens in plain sight, even in affluent communities. Increased awareness, community engagement, and strategic interventions—such as placing informational signs in public spaces—are essential in combating the crisis.
• Beyond financial donations, people can contribute through the "Essential Home Kits" program, mentorship, volunteering, and spreading awareness. Small acts of engagement—whether through advocacy, community involvement, or simply staying informed—can make a profound difference.

You’ve already done the quo—now it’s time to go beyond.
🔥 Feeling inspired? Don’t keep it to yourself!
•        Subscribe, share and follow Beyond the Quo and I’d deeply appreciate your five-star rating so more people can listen and learn!

✨ Connect with Stacey Luces:
•        Free Global Community - Rising Beyond Power Collective: https://www.skool.com/risingbeyondglobalcommunity/about
•        Website: www.staceyluces.com/podcast

📩 Connect with Alex Ortiz:
•        LinkedIn: @trulyalexortiz
•        Website: flitecenter.org
•        Instagram: @flitecenter

What if I told you that resilience isn’t just about bouncing back—it’s about rising stronger, leading louder, and showing up unapologetically? 

In this inspiring episode, Stacey Luces welcomes special guest Takeata King Pang, the powerhouse Executive Director of the Women's Foundation of Florida. Together, they delve into themes of overcoming adversity, leading with courage, and redefining success. Takeata candidly shares her journey navigating dyslexia, ADHD, severe asthma, and breaking barriers in politics and advocacy. Discover insights on how to thrive despite setbacks, the importance of authenticity, and creating spaces for psychological safety. Takeata's compelling personal anecdotes and strategic advice promise to challenge and inspire you to live 'Beyond the Quo'. Don't miss this empowering conversation filled with laughter, wisdom, and actionable takeaways for anyone ready to lead and live out loud.

🎧 In this episode:

•        03:52 | Empowering Women and Creating Safe Spaces
•        06:26 | Overcoming Challenges and Embracing Authenticity
•        07:28 | Redefining Success and Leadership
•        11:17 | Navigating Personal and Professional Boundaries
•        18:24 | The Importance of Self-Priority and Permission
•        33:54 | Women in Leadership & Overcoming Self-Doubt
•        40:09 | The Power of Support Systems

💡 Key Takeaways:

• Resilience is a leadership skill. Takeata’s story proves that setbacks don’t define you—how you rise does. No matter what challenges you face, you still have a seat at the table.
• Women, especially women of color, need safe spaces to thrive. Leadership isn’t just about personal success—it’s about lifting others as you rise and creating room for diverse voices.
• Give yourself permission to be first. So many of us wait for an external stamp of approval before we step into our power. Takeata challenges that idea: You don’t need permission to lead.
• Redefine success on your own terms. Success isn’t just about career milestones—it’s about personal fulfillment, health, and impact. If your definition of success doesn’t include your well-being, it’s time to rewrite the script.
• Collaboration > Competition. The secret to amplifying your impact? Strong partnerships, a fearless support system, and refusing to play small. Living authentically has the power to help others. Commit to embracing your true self and living as loud as possible. You never know who might be inspired by your genuine journey.
• Choose to live loudly and authentically. By doing so, you spark a light for someone else. 

You’ve already done the quo—now it’s time to go beyond.

🔥 Feeling inspired? Don’t keep it to yourself!
•        Subscribe, share and follow Beyond the Quo and I’d deeply appreciate your five-star rating so more people can listen and learn!

✨ Connect with Stacey Luces:
•        Free Global Community - Rising Beyond Power Collective: https://www.skool.com/risingbeyondglobalcommunity/about
•        Website: www.staceyluces.com/podcast

📩 Connect with Takeata King Pang:
•        Linked In: @TakeataKing or @WomensFoundationFL
•        Website: WomensFoundationFL.org

What if the greatest purpose of your life was born from your deepest pain? 

In this episode of Beyond the Quo, host Stacey Luces dives into the power of purpose, authenticity, and courageous leadership. Special guest Lisa Murphy, founder of Open Hearts for Orphans, shares her poignant story of resilience, love, and the transformative power of community. 
Lisa Murphy never planned to build a nonprofit. She never expected to adopt five children. And she certainly didn’t anticipate the heartbreak that would change everything.
But when faced with loss, she had a choice: let it define her or let it drive her.
Listen as Lisa discusses her personal journey through adoption, the birth and evolution of purpose, and how her nonprofit is making a difference in the lives of abandoned and at-risk children. Discover how Lisa's experiences, including profound loss and deep faith, have shaped her mission and inspired others to say 'yes' to extraordinary change. 
This episode tackles themes of legacy, the impact of small steps, and the importance of surrounding yourself with a supportive community. Don't miss out on this heartwarming and motivational conversation.

🎧 In this episode:
•        01:38 Heartbreak and Resilience
•        05:33 Legacy and Continued Mission
•        08:44 Navigating Adoption Challenges
•        12:05 Support Systems and Community
•        17:22 Adoption Myths and Realities
•        30:26 Finding Your Place in the Nonprofit World
•        31:05 The Power of Community and Partnerships
•        39:07 Starting and Sustaining a Nonprofit

💡 Key Takeaways:

• Lisa Murphy’s journey began with personal loss and evolved into a powerful mission. Through Open Hearts for Orphans, she has helped transform the lives of abandoned and at-risk children in the U.S. and abroad, proving that purpose often emerges from life’s greatest challenges.
• The loss of their son, Daniel, was deeply painful, yet his impact inspired them to continue their advocacy, showing that even in loss, love and purpose can grow.
• Open Hearts for Orphans started as a grassroots initiative and now provides medical intervention, adoption assistance, and basic needs for children worldwide. Lisa’s story reminds us that small actions create powerful ripple effects.
• Lisa’s journey is a testament to living with authenticity, leading with courage, and trusting the unknown. She encourages others to take small, meaningful steps toward their purpose, knowing that even a single “yes” can change lives.

You’ve already done the quo—now it’s time to go beyond.
🔥 Feeling inspired? Don’t keep it to yourself!
Subscribe, share and follow Beyond the Quo and I’d deeply appreciate your five-star rating so more people can listen and learn!

✨ Connect with Stacey Luces:
•        Free Global Community - Rising Beyond Power Collective: https://www.skool.com/risingbeyondglobalcommunity/about
•        Website: www.staceyluces.com/podcast

📩 Connect with Lisa Murphy:
•        LinkedIn: @ company/open-hearts-for-orphans
•        Website: openheartsfororphans.org
•        Instagram: @openheartsfororphansorg

What if I told you that loneliness is a silent epidemic—even in a world that’s hyper-connected? Here’s how to create real, human connections that go beyond the status quo.

In this episode of 'Beyond the Quo,' host Stacey Luces sits down with Arielle Leavitt, an inspiring leader who turned her family's struggling business into a thriving success and is now revolutionizing how we connect with her Ripple Networking App.
We explored some powerful truths about leadership, resilience, and the human need for connection. Arielle shared her journey—starting at just 22 years old—to take on her family’s business after an unexpected crisis. She didn’t just keep it afloat; she transformed it into something extraordinary.

🎧 In this episode:
•        01:06 The Importance of Connection
•        05:17 Arielle's Personal Journey
•        06:32 Taking Over the Family Business
•        08:47 Challenges and Imposter Syndrome

💡 Key Takeaways:

• Connection is Vital: As Arielle puts it, connection is food for the soul—it uplifts, energizes, and fuels us. Whether it’s building business relationships or fostering personal bonds, meaningful connections can truly change lives.
• Lead Courageously: Leadership isn’t about having all the answers; it’s about showing up, learning, and leading with authenticity—even when you feel out of your depth.
• Redefine Success: Life isn’t about rigid goals; it’s about evolving and allowing ourselves the freedom to grow into new versions of ourselves. Success is fluid, and it’s okay to reinvent.

You’ve already done the quo—now it’s time to go beyond.

🎧 Feeling inspired? Don’t keep it to yourself! Subscribe, share and follow Beyond the Quo and I’d deeply appreciate your five-star rating so more people can listen and learn!
💡 P.S. If you're looking for a safe space to connect, grow, and thrive, check out my Rising Beyond Power Collective—a global network specifically for women of color leaders. Together, we’re creating real change, one ripple at a time. 🌍
https://www.skool.com/risingbeyondglobalcommunity/about
✨ Connect with Stacey: staceyluces.com/podcast

📩 Connect with Arielle Leavitt:
•        LinkedIn: @Arielle.Leavitt 
•        @ripplenetworkingapp

What if I told you that only 26% of U.S. mayors are women—and today’s guest is one of them? Get ready for a masterclass in leading with authenticity and purpose.
In this episode of Beyond the Quo, host Stacey Luces interviews Dr. Jeri Muoio, founder and CEO of Great Cities for All, and former two-term mayor of West Palm Beach, Florida. 
They explore themes of authentic and servant leadership, emphasizing trust, purpose, and community involvement. Dr. Muoio shares insights from her extensive career in public service and education, stressing the importance of listening, building relationships, and empowering others. The discussion touches on the challenges women face in leadership roles, balancing work and personal life, and encouraging risk-taking. 
This masterclass in leadership offers invaluable advice for anyone looking to lead with courage, empathy, and lasting impact. The episode concludes with practical advice for becoming involved in community service and fostering positive change.

🎧 In this episode:
•        01:10 Journey of Transformative Leadership
•        03:07 Inspiring Leadership and Building Trust
•        22:51 Core Values and Personal Growth
•        29:47 Career Progression, A Mother's Panic and Resilience
•        33:19 Balancing Parenthood and Career
•        34:57 Legacy and Impact Reflections
•        43:21 Community Service and Volunteering
•        46:12 Empowering Women and Future Generations

💡 Key Takeaways:

• How servant leadership shifts the focus from authority to service, empowering teams and creating lasting impact.
• Strategies for women to lead authentically and confidently in industries or roles where they’re underrepresented.
• Insights into overcoming challenges like the “likeability trap” and finding balance between likability and competence.
• Why success is often on the other side of fear and how messy action leads to growth.
  Lessons on resilience and vulnerability as a parent, partner, and leader.

You’ve already done the quo—now it’s time to go beyond.

🔥 Feeling inspired? Don’t keep it to yourself!
•        Subscribe to Beyond the Quo and leave a five-star review.
•        Share this episode with someone ready to embrace their authentic power.
•        Follow Stacey and her guest to continue the conversation.

✨ Connect with Stacey Luces:
•        Website: www.staceyluces.com/podcast
•        Instagram: @Stacey.Luces | @BeyondTheQuoPodcast
•        Rising Beyond Power Collective: https://www.skool.com/risingbeyondglobalcommunity/about

📩 Connect with Dr. Muoio:
•        LinkedIn: @ jerimuoio

What happens when the chapter you’ve built your life around comes to an end?

In this episode of Beyond the Quo, host Stacey Luces is joined by Jerome Myers—a visionary entrepreneur, exit strategist, and founder of Exodus. Jerome is known for helping leaders navigate life’s pivotal transitions, overcome self-doubt, and align their work with their purpose. From building a $20M division for a Fortune 550 company to creating impactful tools like the 2C Matrix and NEO Navigator, Jerome brings unmatched insights into leading through change.

Jerome shares how the concept of “taking the red pill” shaped his decision to leave corporate life and pursue entrepreneurship, how leaving a business or career you’ve built brings challenges of identity, self-worth, and legacy and shares his perspective on how systemic inequities and cultural expectations shape the exit journey for Black entrepreneurs.

Key Messages:
•        Transitions are portals to transformation, not roadblocks.
•        Redefining success requires courage, self-reflection, and a commitment to authenticity.
•        Building a legacy means aligning your life and work with purpose and impact.

🎧 In this episode:
•        01:28 The Matrix Analogy: Redefining Success and Transitions
•        04:29 The Desert Journey: Challenges of Leaving Corporate Life
•        11:12 The Human Impact: Personal and Professional Struggles
•        15:37 Building the Next Thing: Aligning Purpose and Career
•        20:08 The Power of Guidance: Mentorship and Coaching
•        22:28 Family and Authenticity: Balancing Success and Personal Life
•        33:02 The Illusion of Success

You’ve already done the quo—now it’s time to go beyond.
🔥 Feeling inspired? Don’t keep it to yourself!
•        Subscribe to Beyond the Quo and leave a five-star review.
•        Share this episode with someone ready to embrace their authentic power.
•        Follow Stacey and Jerome to continue the conversation.

Connect with Stacey Luces:
•        Website: www.staceyluces.com/podcast
•        Rising Beyond Power Collective: https://www.skool.com/risingbeyondglobalcommunity/about

Connect with Jerome Myers:
•        Website: exittoexcellence.com
•        Instagram: @coachjeromemyers
•        LinkedIn: @jeromemyers

What if fear could fuel your success? In this episode of Beyond the Quo, host Stacey Luces explores how embracing fear, crafting your unique story, and aligning your life with passion can lead to profound transformation. Joining Stacey is Samdra Rodriguez-Pabon, a creative brand strategist, entrepreneur, and founder of Samdraland Studio, where she partners with businesses globally to create thoughtful branding, marketing strategies, and compelling stories that resonate with their audiences and also runs Bloomera, a home bakery in Puerto Rico.

Sandra shares her journey of balancing two businesses, pursuing her MBA, and navigating a life-changing move to Puerto Rico—all while staying true to her passions and purpose. Together, they unpack the power of storytelling, the discipline required for growth, and the importance of building supportive relationships.

This conversation is a must-listen for anyone looking to break free from the status quo, overcome fear, and design a life rooted in authenticity and ambition.

🎧 In this episode:
•        06:05 Balancing Business and Education
•        20:52 The Power of Storytelling in Business
•        30:35 Understanding Personal Branding
•        33:57 Embracing Digital and Physical Ventures
•        42:18 Balancing Ambition and Relaxation
•        43:55 Crafting Your Life's Narrative
•        48:35 Advice for Aspiring Entrepreneurs

💡 Key Takeaways:

1. Own Your Story: Your personal and professional narratives define how others perceive you—and how you perceive yourself.
2. Face Fear Head-On: Break down overwhelming challenges into actionable steps to move forward.
3. Build Supportive Circles: Reassess relationships and ensure your support system aligns with your goals and values.

You’ve already done the quo—now it’s time to go beyond.

🔥 Feeling inspired? Don’t keep it to yourself!
•        Subscribe to Beyond the Quo and leave a five-star review.
•        Share this episode with someone ready to embrace their authentic power.
•        Follow Stacey and Samdra to continue the conversation.

✨ Connect with Stacey Luces:
•        Website: www.staceyluces.com/podcast
•        Instagram: @Stacey.Luces | @BeyondTheQuoPodcast
•        Rising Beyond Power Collective: https://www.skool.com/risingbeyondglobalcommunity/about
•        YouTube: StaceyLuces/Podcasts

📩 Connect with Samdra Rodriguez-Pabon:
•        Instagram & TikTok: @SamdraLand
•        LinkedIn: @samdralorraine

What if your “Yes” lives in the land of “No” and stepping into the unknown leads to breakthroughs in love, leadership, and life?
In this compelling episode of Beyond the Quo, Stacey Luces sits down with someone who truly goes beyond the quo in every sense of the word - Brian Howie! He’s an award-winning director, America’s Number 1 Dating Enthusiast, and the creative force behind The Great Love Debate, a nationally-touring series of live shows that’s challenged the way we think about love, connection, and relationships. He’s also the CEO of PodPopuli, a community-driven podcasting platform helping people share their stories and amplify their voices.

This episode is more than a conversation; it’s a deep dive into what it means to embrace authenticity, build trust, and find purpose—whether in your relationships, your career, or your creative pursuits. Brian’s refreshing honesty and Stacey’s thoughtful insights will leave you inspired to step beyond your comfort zone, explore new possibilities, and, most importantly, lead with courage and authenticity.

What You'll Learn:

• Redefining Connection - How The Great Love Debate challenges traditional relationship norms and inspires us to rethink love, vulnerability, and connection.
• The Power of Authenticity - Why showing up as your true self matters in relationships, work, and leadership—and how to navigate societal expectations to find fulfillment.
• Building Community and Legacy - Brian's mission to create spaces where people’s voices can be heard, from podcasting workshops for kids to empowering others through storytelling.
• Overcoming Fear and Embracing Growth - Lessons from Brian’s personal journey of stepping out of his comfort zone, confronting failure, and learning to believe in himself and others.
• Masculine and Feminine Dynamics - A candid discussion on how shifting gender roles impact relationships and what it means to thrive together in today’s world.

Feeling inspired? Don’t keep it to yourself!
•        Subscribe to Beyond the Quo and leave a five-star review.
•        Share this episode with someone ready to embrace their authentic power.

Connect with Stacey to join the conversation.
•        Website: www.staceyluces.com
•        Instagram: @Stacey.Luces | @BeyondTheQuoPodcast
•        Rising Beyond Global Community: Join Here
•        YouTube: staceyluces/podcasts

Connect with Brian Howie:
•        Instagram: @greatlovedebate
•        Website: greatlovedebate.com

You’ve already done the quo—now it’s time to go beyond.