Elevated Focus

What happens when you realise the life you've worked so hard to build no longer feels aligned with who you're becoming?

In the very first episode of Elevated Focus, Julia sits down with one of her oldest friends and former colleague, Pearl Gabel. Together, they reflect on their years as photojournalists at the New York Daily News, sharing stories from behind the headlines, the emotional toll of documenting tragedy and the unexpected ways those experiences shaped the women they are today.

This honest conversation explores what it means to leave behind an identity you've outgrown, embrace change and discover that sometimes the most meaningful work begins when you're brave enough to start again.

If you've ever felt stuck, questioned your path, or wondered if it's too late to reinvent yourself, this episode is for you.

In this episode, we discuss:

• The emotional realities of life as photojournalists covering breaking news.
• Learning to trust your instincts when your work no longer aligns with your values.
• Why motherhood, career changes and life transitions can completely reshape your purpose.
• The courage it takes to walk away from a career you've worked so hard to build.
• Why there isn't always a "right" path and why that's okay.
• The importance of community, healing and surrounding yourself with people who lift you up.
• How storytelling has evolved from documenting people's hardest moments to helping women be seen in the most authentic way.
• Why the journey, not the destination, is where the real transformation happens.

Connect with Julia

If today's conversation reminded you that your story deserves to be seen, I'd love to help you tell it.

Whether you're launching a business, stepping into a new season of life, or simply ready to show up more confidently, I create photography and films that capture the heart of who you are and the story you're building.

Website: https://www.juliaxanthosliddy.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/juliaxanthosliddy/

Email: [email protected]

Connect with Pearl:

Pearl Gabel spent a decade as a news photographer in NYC before transitioning into public service and consulting. She built the NYC Mayor's Office video department, gave New Jersey its voice from the Governor's Office, was named to Fortune's 40 Under 40 and the PRWeek 50, and won an Emmy and multiple industry awards along the way. Most recently she led brand and creative for firms working in highly regulated industries and high-stakes issues. These days she works independently with mission-driven people and organizations in transition. Still scrappy.

Find her at pearlgabel.com

And if you enjoyed this episode, don't forget to follow the podcast, leave a review, and share it with someone who's ready to take the next step in their own journey.

Post production: Kellie Ashton

Every woman has a story worth telling and when you're building something meaningful, the way you tell that story matters.

Welcome to Elevated Focus hosted by photographer and visual storyteller Julia Xanthos Liddy.

This podcast is for the woman who are hearing the whispers that you’re meant for something more and need help turning it into reality.

Every Monday, you'll hear from Julia alongside inspiring guests as they explore the courage it takes to begin, the challenges of building something meaningful, and the stories that shape who we become. Through honest conversations and practical advice, each episode is designed to help you shift your perspective, find clarity, and build the confidence to show up authentically as you create a life and business that's uniquely yours.

Julia’s work has never been just about taking beautiful photographs, it's about helping women be seen at the moment they decide to stop hiding.

So hit follow or subscribe wherever your listening as the most powerful stories are the ones that are Imperfectly Exposed.