In this episode of Business as UNusual, host Aicila explores the critical difference between authentic connection energy and people pleasing in business relationships. She discusses how true connection is rooted in mutual presence, reciprocity, and alignment—never in perpetual accessibility or self-sacrifice. Hear practical strategies for setting boundaries, fueling your work without burning out, and building collaborations that energize instead of drain. This episode is packed with insights for creative entrepreneurs, leaders, and anyone navigating the demands of modern business connection.

Topics discussed in this episode:

• What is connection energy and how is it different from people pleasing?
• Why always being available drains your energy and hurts genuine relationships
• Key myths about customer service and the pressure of hustle culture
• How to set boundaries as “energy containers” that help you thrive
• The importance of saying yes to alignment—not just obligation
• Practical steps to shift from obligation to collaboration in business and life

Capacity Check-In Tool by Aicila (linked in episode show notes)

Ready to energize your business relationships? Take the Capacity Check-In to discover your connection strengths—link in the show notes!

Set one new boundary this week that supports your energy—notice how it helps you show up authentically!

Share this episode with a fellow entrepreneur who needs a reminder: Connection should fuel, not cost you.

The full transcript of this conversation is available at https://www.bicurean.com/bautranscripts3

Transcripts and notes generated with Descript and Castmagic and then edited by human eyes and hands.

Lightly edited and produced by BiCurean Consulting, BiCurean.com.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of Business as UNusual, host Aicila dives deep with Padideh Jafari, Esq, founder and CEO of Jafari Law and Mediation Office. Padideh is a seasoned family law attorney known for her psychology-based approach to divorce, mediation, and abuse recovery. From navigating complex cases to co-hosting a popular podcast on narcissistic abuse, Padideh shares her unconventional strategies for leading with empathy, setting boundaries, and transforming the legal profession. Explore how breaking the mold in family law can support healing, empower survivors, and set a new standard for legal excellence.

Topics Discussed in This Episode:

• Leading with empathy: How Padideh uses psychology in her law practice
• Understanding divorce options: Mediation, collaborative law, and litigation
• Navigating narcissistic abuse in relationships and legal proceedings
• Setting boundaries and choosing the right clients
• The importance of being "narc-informed" in family law
• Advice for empaths and survivors: Healing, boundaries, and self-advocacy
• Community involvement and entrepreneurship beyond the courtroom
• The power of podcasts and social media in survivor education

Resources Mentioned in This Episode:

• Jafari Law and Mediation Office
• Narcissist Abuse Recovery Channel (NARC) Podcast – Available on Spotify, Apple, and iHeart
• Jafari Legal Instagram
• CASA OC (Court Appointed Special Advocates of Orange County)
• Jafari Legal Threads

Listen to the Narcissist Abuse Recovery Channel for expert insights and survivor stories.

Follow Padideh on Instagram and Threads for ongoing legal tips and inspiration.

Get involved—find a cause you care about and make an impact in your community like Padideh does with CASA OC!

The full transcript of this conversation is available at https://www.bicurean.com/bautranscripts3

Transcripts and notes generated with Descript and Castmagic and then edited by human eyes and hands.

Lightly edited and produced by BiCurean Consulting, BiCurean.com.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of Business as UNusual, host Aicila sits down with celebrated Canadian artist and entrepreneur Tim Packer to explore how unconventional thinking, discipline, and business savvy can turn creativity into a multi-million dollar enterprise. Tim shares his journey from police detective to renowned artist, revealing the real strategies that break the starving artist myth. Artists and business leaders alike will learn why mindset, consistent effort, and a growth-oriented approach are crucial for success in the art world—and beyond.

Topics discussed in this episode:

• The power of discipline: What a detective background taught Tim about succeeding as an artist
• Why showing up matters: Consistency as the not-so-secret ingredient to business success
• Demystifying the "talent" myth: How artists can train and grow their abilities at any stage
• From inspiration to income: The mindset shifts needed to turn passion into a profitable art business
• Building a sustainable art career: Mixing passion, pragmatism, and testing before leaping
• The problem with art education: Why most art programs fail and how artists can learn what actually works
• Giving back and scaling impact: Tim’s transition to teaching and The Hungry Artist Community
• Lessons learned: Advice Tim would give his 18-year-old self and hungry artists everywhere

Resources mentioned in this episode:

• Tim Packer Art Academy – Online courses and community for aspiring artists: https://www.timpackerartacademy.com
• Tim Packer Fine Arts YouTube Channel – Over 200 free art business & painting videos: Tim Packer Fine Arts
• The Scottsdale Artist School – Where top professional artists teach workshops: https://scottsdaleartschool.org

Ready to transform your art from hobby to career? Check out Tim’s courses at the Tim Packer Art Academy.

Challenge yourself! Commit to painting (or your craft) three times a week and watch your skills—and opportunities—grow.

Want inspiration and expert advice? Subscribe to Tim’s YouTube channel for weekly tips on mastering your art and business.

The full transcript of this conversation is available at https://www.bicurean.com/bautranscripts3

Transcripts and notes generated with Descript and Castmagic and then edited by human eyes and hands.

Lightly edited and produced by BiCurean Consulting, BiCurean.com.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of Business as UNusual, host Aicila sits down with MC Laubscher—bestselling author, entrepreneur, investor, and host of the Cash Flow Ninja podcast. MC reveals why 99% of standard financial advice is wrong for business owners, shares simple frameworks to demystify wealth-building, and uncovers the alternative strategies that help entrepreneurs take control, multiply their wealth, and create real financial freedom. If you're ready to break free from traditional thinking and build a legacy, don't miss this conversation.

Topics discussed in this episode:

• Why most financial advice can hurt business owners
• The importance of keeping control: Be your own bank
• Simplifying finance—explaining money to a five-year-old
• The difference between saving, investing, gambling, and speculating
• Compounding interest: the good, the bad, and the tax leak
• Defining real success: Freedom, purpose, and energy
• Resilience in entrepreneurship—advice to an 18-year-old self
• The power of alternative wealth strategies and legacy planning
• MC's book, "Get Wealthy for Sure," and actionable steps for your financial future

Resources mentioned in this episode:

• MC Laubscher's book: Get Wealthy for Sure
• Producers Wealth - MC's company
• Cash Flow Ninja Podcast

Download a free copy of MC’s bestselling book, Get Wealthy for Sure, and discover why business as unusual leads to legacy wealth!

Explore more out-of-the-box business strategies with the Cash Flow Ninja podcast.

Ready to take control? Visit Producers Wealth for guidance on alternative wealth strategies for business owners.

The full transcript of this conversation is available at https://www.bicurean.com/bautranscripts3

Transcripts and notes generated with Descript and Castmagic and then edited by human eyes and hands.

Lightly edited and produced by BiCurean Consulting, BiCurean.com.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of Business as UNusual, host Aicila welcomes Melissa Snow, founder of the Powerful Women Rising Community and business relationship strategist, to discuss authentic networking for women entrepreneurs. Melissa shares how her journey as a coach led her to empower women to grow their businesses through genuine connections rather than outdated, transactional networking models. Listen for innovative frameworks, actionable advice for introverts and neurodivergent entrepreneurs, and Melissa’s unique take on building business communities that foster real growth.

Topics discussed in this episode:

• Rethinking networking: Genuine connections vs. sales-first mindsets
• Frameworks for finding the networking style that fits YOU
• How Powerful Women Rising is changing the game for businesswomen
• Overcoming the “salesy weirdo” trap with authenticity
• Lessons in self-trust and doing business your own way
• The value of community, mentorship, and collective problem-solving
• The impact of structured vs. unstructured networking formats
• Melissa’s virtual speed networking events as a business growth catalyst

Resources mentioned in this episode:

• Powerful Women Rising website – info about Melissa’s community, podcast, and events
• Virtual Speed Networking Event – open to all women entrepreneurs, first Tuesday of every month

🎧 Like what you heard? Subscribe to Business as UNusual for more disruptive conversations with leaders who do business differently!

🤝 Challenge yourself! Try a new networking format that honors your authentic style—what if your best connection is waiting just outside your comfort zone?

Episode transcript:

The full transcript of this conversation is available at https://www.bicurean.com/bautranscripts3

Transcripts and notes generated with Descript and Castmagic and then edited by human eyes and hands.

Lightly edited and produced by BiCurean Consulting, BiCurean.com.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of Business as UNusual, host Aicila sits down with Evante Daniels, a cultural physicist, strategist, and author, to unpack the game-changing ideas behind "cultural physics." Discover how Daniels’ unique background―working with global brands, political campaigns, and pioneering media analysis―shapes his approach to cultural intelligence, collective consciousness, and the real power of effective communication across today’s diverse business landscape. If you’re curious about innovative business culture, the intersection of media and influence, or how to foster authenticity in corporate environments, this conversation with Seeker’s chief strategy officer is a must-listen.

Topics discussed in this episode:

• What is Cultural Physics? Breaking down the emerging discipline and why it matters now
• How cultural fluency shapes powerful communication in business and politics
• The hidden signals: Why environment, timing, and language all mold workplace authenticity
• Practical strategies for leaders and organizers to disrupt bias and foster true inclusion
• Success metrics for Seeker and personal advice from Evante Daniels
• Building new tools: Measuring cultural volatility and organizational resilience

Resources mentioned in this episode:

• Seeker (with a Q): https://seeqer.co
• Evante Daniels on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/evantedaniels
• Seeker’s Fall Cultural Physics Cohort: Applications open August, cohort starts September
• “The Souls of Black Folk” by W. E. B. DuBois (concept of double consciousness reference)
• Baldwin on dual consciousness (literary reference)

Learn more about Cultural Physics and how it can reshape your workplace by visiting Seeker at https://seeqer.co

Ready to level up your organizational culture? Apply for Seeker’s upcoming Cultural Physics Cohort and bring transformative strategy to your team

Stay inspired—connect with Evante Daniels on LinkedIn or Substack and join the conversation about modern business, power, and inclusion

Episode transcript:

The full transcript of this conversation is available at https://www.bicurean.com/bautranscripts3

Transcripts and notes generated with Descript and Castmagic and then edited by human eyes and hands.

Lightly edited and produced by BiCurean Consulting, BiCurean.com.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

On this episode of Business as UNusual, host Aicila sits down with Brent—also known as Realm Seeker—a postgraduate psychology student turned multidisciplinary creator. Brent dives deep into the world of creative flow, overcoming self-doubt, and the power of solo RPG worldbuilding as both an art form and personal growth tool. They discuss practical ways to align your creative work with your inner values, rather than chasing external trends, and how vulnerability can drive authentic connections. This episode is perfect for anyone interested in creativity, RPGs, visionary fiction, or finding fulfillment outside the typical business playbook.

Topics discussed in this episode:

• Exploring creativity beyond traditional boundaries
• Why letting go can spark your best ideas
• The "Artist’s Way" approach to spiritual and sustainable creativity
• Overcoming vulnerability and fear of sharing your work
• Alignment vs. algorithm: How to find your flow and avoid burnout
• Community, collaboration, and defining personal success
• The rise of solo RPGs as creative practice
• Tips for teaching and connecting in niche creative communities

Resources mentioned in this episode:

• The Artist's Way by Julia Cameron
• Realm Seeker on Substack: Realmzone

Curious about solo RPGs or creative worldbuilding? Connect with Brent on Substack at realmzone.substack.com to join his creative community!

Ready to unlock your artistic flow? Try a week of daily creativity with zero pressure—just experiment and see where your imagination takes you!

Let’s get unconventional! Share your own Business as UNusual story with us on social media or at BiCurean.com—your authentic voice could inspire others!

Episode transcript:

The full transcript of this conversation is available at https://www.bicurean.com/bautranscripts3

Transcripts and notes generated with Descript and Castmagic and then edited by human eyes and hands.

Lightly edited and produced by BiCurean Consulting, BiCurean.com.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of Business as UNusual, host Aicila explores the critical difference between focusing on your goals and fixating on them—a game changer for entrepreneurs and business leaders. Discover actionable strategies to reorient your attention, leverage intention over rigid solutions, and build momentum through daily processes. Whether you’re aiming for location independence, growing your revenue, or tackling your next big milestone, this episode helps you break free from limiting paradigms and cultivate real business progress.

Topics discussed in this episode:

• The key differences between focusing and fixating on business goals
• How intention can open up more opportunities than fixating on a single solution
• Why loving the process is essential for sustainable business growth
• Actionable tips for aligning daily tasks with your bigger vision
• Avoiding common pitfalls: over-preparation vs. impulsive action
• Leveraging consistency over luck in content and business development

Try this: Reflect on your current business goal. Are you focusing on the outcome or fixating on the method? Share your shift with us on social!

Take action: Identify one small step you can take today to move closer to your intention—then do it!

Stay unconventional: Subscribe and follow for more disruptive strategies that help you stand out in the modern business world!

Episode transcript:

The full transcript of this conversation is available at https://www.bicurean.com/bautranscripts3

Transcripts and notes generated with Descript and Castmagic and then edited by human eyes and hands.

Lightly edited and produced by BiCurean Consulting, BiCurean.com. @bicurean

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of Business as UNusual, host Aicila welcome David Silverman, acclaimed screenwriter, TV producer, and Stanford-educated psychotherapist. Silverman shares his unconventional journey from psychology to Hollywood, breaking down the mindset, resilience, and creative strategies that helped him co-create series like The Wild Thornberries and author "How to Be a Rock Star Screenwriter." Discover how embracing the human condition, pushing past rejection, and leveraging unusual tactics can redefine business success—both onscreen and off.

Topics discussed in this episode:

• From Therapy to TV: David Silverman’s Unusual Career Path
• What It Really Takes to Break Into Hollywood as a Screenwriter
• The Power of Partnership and Surviving Writers’ Rooms
• Lessons from Psychotherapy That Give Writers an Edge
• Managing Sensitivity and Anxiety in Creative Professions
• Myths vs. Reality in Screenwriting Success: Is Your First Script Worth Millions?
• Bold Moves for Getting Noticed in the Entertainment Industry
• Practical Tips for New Writers: Agents, Pitching, and More
• Silverman’s Advice to His 18-Year-Old Self
• EMDR and Advancements in Treating Trauma for Creative Professionals

Resources mentioned in this episode:

• How to Be a Rock Star Screenwriter
• HollywoodScriptwriting.com
• DavidSilvermanLMFT.com
• IMDb Pro
• The Highly Sensitive Person by Elaine Aron
• Wild Thornberries (TV Series)
• PsychCentral (psychology writing)

Ready to break into screenwriting? Grab David’s book "How to Be a Rock Star Screenwriter" and start your journey!

Seeking creative business inspiration? Explore unconventional tips at hollywoodscriptwriting.com.

Know someone dreaming of Hollywood? Share this episode to spark their next big idea!

The full transcript of this conversation is available at https://www.bicurean.com/bautranscripts3

Transcripts and notes generated with Descript and Castmagic and then edited by human eyes and hands.

Lightly edited and produced by BiCurean Consulting, BiCurean.com.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of Business as UNusual, host Aicila welcomes Shez Mehra, an award-winning creative entrepreneur, DJ, and founder of 194 Group. Together, they explore the powerful impact of sonic branding, the importance of audio strategy for businesses of all sizes, and how intentional sound design can transform customer experience and boost brand recall. Whether you’re an established enterprise or a solopreneur, discover why innovative leaders are tuning in to the untapped potential of sound in their business strategy.

Topics discussed in this episode:

• Why sonic branding is the next big frontier in brand strategy
• Shez Mehra’s journey from DJ battles to global experience design
• How even small businesses and solopreneurs can harness audio branding
• The neuroscience behind sound, memory, and trust
• Simple steps and big wins: Audio strategy for remote, service-based, and digital-first businesses
• Building brand consistency with intentional sonic experiences
• Personal reflections on entrepreneurial success and rethinking business goals
• The future of audio-driven experiences in business

Learn more about Shez's wok:

• Shez Mehra’s personal and business site: shezmehra.com

Want to transform your brand’s identity? Visit shezmehra.com to learn more about sonic branding and how it can revolutionize your business.

Never miss an unconventional business insight! Subscribe, share, and leave us a review on your favorite podcast platform.

Ready for Business as UNusual? Think beyond visuals—start crafting your business’s sound experience today!

The full transcript of this conversation is available at https://www.bicurean.com/bautranscripts3

Transcripts and notes generated with Descript and Castmagic and then edited by human eyes and hands.

Lightly edited and produced by BiCurean Consulting, BiCurean.com.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.