If only we knew then what we know now… but at least we’re saying it out loud now.

In this deeply personal and wildly relatable episode of Awf The Record, Jeannette and Mona rewind the tape in their 20s and 30s to share the lessons they wish someone had told them. From learning to speak up in rooms that made them question their worth, to letting go of friendships, careers, and relationships that no longer served them—nothing’s off limits.

They open up about family dynamics, boundary-setting, and what it really means to advocate for yourself—at work, in love, and in life. And yes, we talk about money too: why negotiating your salary isn’t optional, how to align with people who value you, and the power of knowing your worth.

This episode is your reminder that wisdom takes time, but sharing it can be revolutionary.

KEY POINTS

- Friendship 101: Acquaintances vs real friends

- Benefits of having a diverse group of friends

- On dealing with imposter syndrome

- Building a strong professional relationship 

- The value of family time and mental health 

- Romantic relationship: Necessities and regrets 

- The importance of financial literacy 

- Embrace the “cringe of trying” new things

- Be confident and strive for continuous improvement 

QUOTES 

"Pay attention to the people that are in your corner that you have a deep friendship with, and invest in those people." – Mona Kosar Abdi

"I wish I would have been more intentional about spending time with family. It's weird when you're in your 30s, or, I don't know if it happens at different stages for people — like people I love… they're getting old.” – Jeannette Reyes

"Sometimes, there is no room to tolerate passive-aggressive behavior. Setting boundaries with your family members, and I think going to therapy in your 20s." – Mona Kosar Abdi

“Do a better job of keeping in touch with friends from a previous season — I went to high school with this person or I worked in this market with this person.” – Jeannette Reyes

RESOURCES: 

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Mona Kosar Abdi

IG |  @monakabdi 

Jeannette Reyes

IG |  @msnewslady 

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