The gem drop from Chastin: “I kept placing myself in very uncomfortable situations because I noticed that it got that hard and that rough in order for me to snap, you know, snap into action…That's the only way that I can grow personally.”

Chastin J Miles is a dynamic individual with a remarkable journey of personal and professional growth. He is a serial entrepreneur, podcast host, TEDx speaker, author, realtor, and external advisor to the Dallas Mavericks. Chastin's accomplishments have been recognized by esteemed publications like Forbes, Essence, Black Enterprise, and NBC News Now.

His drive to succeed stems from a desire to prove his worth and capabilities to himself and those around him. Chastin faced the expectations and pressures associated with being the eldest child, especially the responsibility of setting an example for his siblings. He opted to chart his own path, deviating from the traditional route of higher education. Instead, he pursued entrepreneurship, determined to showcase his ability to succeed.

Chastin's story is a testament to the power of resilience, self-belief, and the pursuit of one's unique path to success. His journey from a young Baptist upbringing to a multifaceted entrepreneur and influencer reflects his unwavering commitment to personal and spiritual growth, as well as his determination to make a lasting impact on the world.

Keep listening to learn about:

Motivation for Successful Entrepreneurship (18:41)

Chastin shares his motivation for success, which stems from the desire to prove himself and overcome societal expectations, particularly in the context of not pursuing a college education. Both Chastin and Jiliane discuss the common theme of entrepreneurship and the need to prove themselves to doubters and family members.

How to Transition to Real Estate (26:58)

Chastin shares the story of his transition into the real estate industry, highlighting the motivations behind his career choice and the initial challenges he faced, offering insights into his early experiences as a real estate agent.

Hiring and Delegation (38:21)

The episode delves into the importance of hiring and delegating tasks to virtual assistants and other team members, emphasizing the role of delegation in enhancing productivity, efficiency, and business growth.

Coaching and Mentorship (50:23)

Chastin discusses the significance of coaching and mentorship in his journey, stressing the value of seeking guidance from individuals slightly ahead in their entrepreneurial path who can provide practical advice and relatable insights.

Real Estate Agent-Client Relationships (54:21)

They discuss the importance of the relationship between real estate agents and their clients, emphasizing how real estate agents often become a crucial source of emotional support during the home-buying process. Clients often form strong connections with their agents due to the personal nature of the home-buying experience.

Tools and Resources for Real Estate Professionals (1:08:02)

Chastin touches on the tools, systems, and resources that can benefit individuals looking to become successful in real estate. It includes recommendations for personality assessments and the importance of choosing tools that align with your strengths and learning style.

When we flip the script, Chastin asks Jiliane: What are you proving right now? If you were to write a book tomorrow, what would it be about? 

Follow Chastin J Miles on Instagram via @chastinjmiles or visit his website: chastinjmiles.com

The gem drop from Katie: “I'm learning to ask, ‘What does that feel like for you?’”

In this podcast episode, Jiliane and Katie engage in a deep and introspective conversation about writing, self-discovery, and the challenges for Highly Sensitive People (HSPs). They explore personal growth, self-awareness, and the challenges and benefits of being a highly sensitive person in the context of writing, relationships, and the pandemic.

Katie Morris is a content manager and writer who is passionate about exploring the depths of the human experience. Currently working at a startup with a mission to make mental health care accessible to all, Katie is dedicated to addressing the critical needs of today's world.

One of the standout aspects of Katie's life is her engaging newsletter, "Warmly Katie." Through this platform, she shares her unique insights and thoughts on various aspects of human psychology, mental health, and life as a human being. Her writing is a reflection of her deep introspection and mission to make people feel less alone in their journeys.

Coupled with her highly sensitive nature, Katie’s constant reflection leads her to explore profound questions about life, existence, and the human soul.

Keep listening to learn about:

Philosophical Thinking in Childhood (6:46)

The conversation briefly touches on Katie's childhood and her early inclination toward contemplating the nature of existence. Katie recalls questioning the concept of being alive at a young age and how she has always been curious about life and human existence.

High Sensitivity and Emotional Processing (9:51)

Katie and Jiliane delve into the topic of highly sensitive people (HSPs) and how Katie's high sensitivity impacts her life. They talk about how she is always empathetic and emotionally connected to the world around her, leading to the need for boundaries and self-care practices to manage the emotional load.

The Pandemic and Mental Health (28:42)

Jiliane and Katie share their experiences and challenges during the COVID-19 pandemic, including the impact of isolation, personal difficulties, and the importance of relationships during such a challenging time.

Long-Distance Friendships (35:29)

The conversation briefly touches upon the dynamics of maintaining long-distance friendships and how the absence of physical proximity can affect relationships. Jiliane shares her experience of moving around frequently and how she tries to maintain strong friendships despite the distance.

Coping Mechanisms and Mental Health (44:41)

Katie discusses coping mechanisms she has learned through her work in the mental health industry, including the "leaves on a stream" meditation and creating personal mantras. They delve into the importance of finding strategies that work for individual mental health needs.

Finding Balance and Inner Peace (49:03)

Jiliane and Katie explore the concept of finding inner peace rather than seeking a constant work-life balance. They emphasize the importance of self-care and embracing different forms of self-expression.

Art and Creativity (53:36)

Jiliane shares her journey into painting as a form of self-expression and healing during the pandemic. They discuss the evolution of her art and how it has become a way for her to communicate with herself and find moments of peace.

When we flip the script, Katie asks Jiliane: How did you start painting? What did it feel like?

Follow Katie Morris on Instagram via @warmlykatie or visit his website: katie-morris.com

The gem drop from Sadiq: “You have to borrow belief from action-takers. Sometimes, especially introverts… we don't have belief in ourselves. I think when you don't have belief, borrow it until you find your belief, then give their belief back and you carry on.”

In this episode, Sadiq Hussain shares his journey from being a self-proclaimed shy boy to becoming a successful business and mindset coach for spiritual introverts. He emphasizes his belief in taking messy action, being unafraid to put oneself out there, and learning from mistakes. He shares how he discovered his calling in coaching and personal development through the positive impact he had on people's lives.

As a TEDx speaker and a seasoned podcast host, Sadiq focuses on topics related to mindset, confidence, and servant leadership. He has been featured in prestigious publications such as Yahoo!, London Chambers, and COACH Global & Marketing In Asia Magazines, demonstrating his impressive reach and influence in the personal development and coaching sphere.

Sadiq's coaching journey began after a period of exploration and self-discovery, marked by several entrepreneurial ventures and learning experiences. His initial career in banking was characterized by shyness and limited self-expression, but this phase ignited his desire for personal development.

He describes his transformation into an action-oriented individual who is passionate about helping and uplifting others. His journey includes experiences in various businesses, including e-commerce, and a significant paradigm shift sparked by reading "Rich Dad Poor Dad."

The conversation between Jiliane and Sadiq delves into the concept of attracting clients through value and energy rather than aggressively seeking them out. They also touch on the similarities and differences in their approaches to action. 

Keep listening to learn about:

Personal Development Coaching (2:00)

Sadiq shares his journey from overcoming shyness to becoming a coach and mindset influencer. The key focus is on finding one's purpose and taking deliberate action.

Cultural Influence and Family Expectations (40:12)

Jiliane and Sadiq touch on the cultural backgrounds they come from, highlighting the impact of family expectations, especially regarding seeking help and pursuing non-traditional career paths such as entrepreneurship.

Support Networks and Finding Like-Minded Individuals (49:43)

Sadiq underscores the significance of finding support networks and connecting with like-minded individuals. He discusses the importance of seeking out people who share his values, vision, and goals, and how these connections can contribute to personal growth and success.

Self-Care and Well-Being (32:23)

Sadiq emphasizes the role of self-care in his life, particularly through exercise and sleep, as crucial for maintaining his well-being and ensuring he can continue to help others effectively. This theme underscores the importance of taking care of oneself while being a giver and a coach.

Overcoming Introverted Tendencies (31:20)

The conversation delves into strategies for introverted individuals to overcome overthinking and decision paralysis, especially in the context of entrepreneurship. Sadiq advises on building connections with action-oriented people and finding ways to add value to their lives.

Content Creation and Authenticity (1:42:39)

Jiliane seeks advice on creating content, particularly videos, as an introverted entrepreneur. Sadiq emphasizes the importance of authenticity, speaking from the heart, and not striving for perfection when producing content to inspire and connect with others.

When we flip the script, Sadiq asks Jiliane: “How did your childhood experiences and upbringing affect how you express empathy?”
Follow Sadiq Hussain on Instagram via @coachsadiq or visit his website: sadiqhussain.com

The gem drop from Jimmy: “I think the greatest way to get forgiveness is to change. Really show them that you're sorry… and never do it again.” 

In this episode, we talk about Jimmy DeFalco's journey from addict to grateful father and coach. While he now focuses on fatherhood, fitness, and mindset - that was not always at the center of his life. Jimmy shares personal experiences and struggles that led him to his lowest point and highlights the power of claiming personal responsibility and its role in transforming yourself. 

Jimmy DeFalco is a coach and motivational speaker who has dedicated his life to helping fathers become the best versions of themselves. Despite a challenging upbringing in an environment reminiscent of "The Wolf of Wall Street," Jimmy's journey took him down a path of drug addiction and self-destruction. However, he managed to turn his life around by taking ownership, seeking forgiveness, and making significant changes.

Jimmy's personal journey and experiences have fueled his passion for helping others. His coaching program aims to create a safe space for men to share their feelings, be held accountable, and break free from self-limiting beliefs. Jimmy's own transformation serves as a powerful example of what's possible when one commits to personal growth and change.

To help our listeners, Jimmy offers practical advice for fathers looking to make positive changes in their lives. He suggests focusing on fitness and nutrition for oneself and involving children in these activities. Additionally, he recommends asking children for feedback on how to improve as a parent and being open to making necessary changes.

Keep listening to learn about:

The Awakened Father Coaching Program (1:33)

Jimmy discusses how his coaching program aims to help men, particularly fathers, improve various aspects of their lives, including physical fitness, mental health, and emotional well-being. He emphasizes the importance of creating a safe space for men to express themselves.

Routines and Self-Care (37:03)

Jiliane and Jimmy talk about the importance of morning and evening routines in their daily lives. Jimmy shares his own routines, including practices like gratitude journaling, visualization, stretching, and supplements, while highlighting their significance for personal growth and well-being.

The Role of Partners in Personal Growth and Recovery (47:38)

The conversation shifts towards the role of Jimmy's fiance in his life and his journey of recovery. They discuss how partners can provide vital support and contribute to personal growth and recovery, emphasizing the importance of having a strong support system.

Follow Jimmy DeFalco on Instagram: @theawakenedfather

The gem drop from Grace: “Regardless if there's pain involved, or challenges involved, at the end of it, you're going to grow somehow.”

In this episode, Jiliane and Grace delve into the evolution of Jiliane's life and mindset over time. Jiliane reflects on her role as the eldest in an immigrant family, highlighting the weight of unconscious expectations placed on her. She notes the pressure to conform to certain career paths and life choices, such as becoming a doctor, lawyer, or accountant, while also shouldering the responsibility of setting an example for her younger siblings.

As the conversation goes on, Jiliane and Grace emphasize the significance of embracing change and the unknown for personal growth. They talk about Jiliane's journey of starting her own business, "The Organization Organization," and her transformation from a high-stress career to a lifestyle focused on art and mental health. 

Grace raises the topic of negative reactions and seeking validation from loved ones for one's dreams and aspirations. Jiliane shares her experience of facing negativity, and how she learned to trust her own decisions. She underscores the importance of vulnerability in relationships and the need to have open and honest conversations about sensitive topics.

Grace highlights the contrast between Jiliane's previous role and her current lifestyle as a full-time artist. They touch on the unexpected turns in life and how embracing change and being true to oneself can lead to growth and fulfillment.

Keep listening to learn about:

Mentorship and Personal Growth (28:34)

Jiliane and Grace touch on the importance of mentorship in personal and professional growth. They discuss how mentors have played a crucial role in guiding them through different stages of life and business development.

Building and Nurturing a Supportive Community (31:43)

Jiliane emphasizes the significance of having a strong and supportive community around you. She shares her experience of relying on her network of friends, mentors, and acquaintances for guidance and encouragement.

Embracing Change and Taking Personal Initiatives (52:51)

Jiliane and Grace’s discussion highlights the role of personal agency and decision-making, particularly in the face of challenges, negative feedback, and societal expectations. Embracing change, taking calculated risks, and prioritizing self-care are central themes.

When we flip the script, Grace asks Jiliane:

What did you feel were your expectations in life growing up? What childhood experiences led you to believe those expectations?

The gem drop from Tamekia: "When you're making friends, be open to letting people occupy the space where they can fit at that time."

In this podcast episode, Jiliane and Tamekia engage in an open conversation about friendships, reflecting on their experiences and challenges. They delve into the complexities of adult friendships, highlighting the difficulty of forming connections in a post-pandemic world.

Tamekia is a spirited individual originally from West Virginia, currently residing in Austin. Her friendly nature shines through her interactions, which is evident in her approach to meeting new people and her openness to exploring common interests. A Sagittarius, Tamekia embraces the spontaneity and adventure that life offers, evident in her willingness to move to different cities and explore various opportunities.

Overall, this episode showcases the nuances of their friendship and strategies for maintaining bonds. The conversation also touches on friendship milestones like bachelorette parties and girls' trips, highlighting how maturity impacts expectations around attendance. Keep listening to learn about Jiliane and Tamekia’s friendship dynamics, experiences with fallouts, and ways to sustain connections. 

Adult Friendships and Their Challenges (4:10)

Jiliane and Tamekia discuss the difficulty of making friends as adults, especially as they move to new places and have changing responsibilities. They share their observations about people's attitudes toward making new friends and the challenges they face in building meaningful connections.

Social Dynamics and Communication (10:34)

This episode delves into the intricacies of social interactions and communication styles when meeting new people. Jiliane and Tamekia share experiences when it comes to responding to invitations, making plans, and maintaining connections. They highlight the importance of being genuine, straightforward, and understanding when navigating friendships.

Friendship Dynamics and Fallouts (28:22)

Jiliane and Tamekia reflect on past experiences of falling out with friends, both through slow drifts and more abrupt disagreements. Tamekia shares instances of falling out with her best friend and the process of reconciliation. Jiliane emphasizes the importance of understanding the role of different friends in various aspects of life.

Long-Distance Friendships and Communication (37:58)

Finally, the conversation delves into maintaining long-distance friendships and keeping them alive. Tamekia explains her preference for phone conversations and how she multitasks while talking. They discuss using apps like Marco Polo for video messaging to maintain connections. They touch upon how maturity and financial stability with age affect the dynamics of events like bachelorette parties, emphasizing that such occasions are less likely to result in falling out among older friends.

When we flip the script, Tamekia asks Jiliane:

Do you feel like you're open? Are you still looking for friends?

The gem drop from Grier: “The one thing that we can always count on is change. And that is life because life is ever-expanding and changing. And we can either ride that wave or be dragged along kicking and screaming.”

In this episode, Jiliane and Grier discuss the profound impact mindfulness can have on personal growth and inner peace. They also reminisce about their past in the wedding and events industry, where they both worked before making a transition into coaching and consulting. Grier shares how she got into wedding photography, which she enjoyed for a long time before circumstances led her to explore other paths.

For more than 30 years, Grier has been studying, teaching, and practicing meditation. Grier is a mom and a multi-talented individual with various interests, including dance, yoga, hiking, and traveling.

Grier's journey into mindfulness and meditation began during her teenage years when she moved to California to pursue her dream of dancing with the San Francisco Ballet. During this time, she stumbled upon a bookstore that piqued her curiosity in the occult, astrology, and tarot. This curiosity eventually led her to explore deeper spiritual practices, including meditation.

Over the years, Grier found that her heart and soul yearned for a more lasting impact on people's lives. She now shares her expertise and wisdom through coaching services, helping others discover their most peaceful, powerful, and joyful selves.

Keep listening to learn about:

Meditation and Mindfulness (18:22)

Learn about the benefits of meditation and how it can help you build awareness and a deeper relationship with yourself. Discover the significance of small, specific, and scheduled practices when incorporating mindfulness into your daily life, and the power of regular meditation to cultivate inner peace and self-awareness.

Pursuit of Growth and Learning (25:25)

Both Jiliane and Grier are lifelong learners and have a curiosity for personal growth and understanding the larger picture of life. They talk about exploring different avenues to learn and develop, including attending classes, retreats, and group events.

Spiritual Practices (37:44)

Learn about different spiritual practices and how you can connect with your inner self. Grier shares her experiences with meditation, breathwork, and mindfulness, while Jiliane talks about her journey transitioning from organized religion to a more spiritual approach. She highlights the importance of finding the right resources and people to help guide and support personal growth

Parenting and Passing on Beliefs (29:26)

How does a parent like Grier approach passing on her spiritual beliefs to their own child? Listen to her journey of talking about spirituality with her daughter and allowing her to find her own path.

Are you interested in reclaiming your power and tapping into your deepest peace anytime? Join Grier for an online workshop entitled: “PEACEFUL AND POWERFUL: 3 Keys to Reclaim Your Calm.” Claim your seat at the links below and attend for FREE! Join us to release the things that block you from feeling peaceful and discover a newfound sense of serenity and strength.

Thursday, August 24th: www.eventbrite.com/e/634790845507/?discount=Sisters

Saturday, September 9th: www.eventbrite.com/e/670799719017/?discount=Peaceful

The gem drop from Rachel: “Have a plan B and C pack light. You don't need as much crap as you think you need.”

In this episode, Jiliane and Rachel reminisce about their high school memories. Rachel shares her journey to culinary school, driven by her love for food despite family pressure. Her transformative experience studying abroad in Italy opened her eyes to the value of quality, seasonal, and slow food movements. She also shares tips for moving and teaching kids how to cook.

Resilient and adaptable, Rachel's life has been marked by mobility and change, as she embraces new beginnings and diverse opportunities. Her experiences with families and children instilled a profound love for crafting delightful meals and unforgettable memories.

As a new mom, she cherishes the joys of parenthood while creating a loving environment for her family. 

Tune in to learn more about:

The Impact of a Diverse School Environment (07:05)

During high school, Jiliane and Rachel had the opportunity to interact with peers from various ethnic backgrounds. This exposure to different cultures sparked a deep appreciation for diversity and a broader perspective on the world. Rachel, in particular, mentions how she cherished the diverse food experiences she had at her friends' houses, embracing cuisines from different cultures. This exposure instilled in them a sense of open-mindedness, acceptance, and a genuine curiosity about different traditions and lifestyles.

A Woman’s Culinary Pursuit (15:45)

Despite pressure from her family to pursue a traditional four-year degree, Rachel followed her heart and enrolled in culinary school. Rachel recounts the pivotal moment when she decided to unenroll from her previous college and pursue her passion for food. She also reflects on her life-changing experience studying abroad in Italy, where she gained a deep appreciation for European culinary practices, seasonality, and the slow food movement.

European Food Culture (21:58)

During her study abroad experience in Italy, Rachel discovered that the ideology of food in the United States paled in comparison to Europe's culinary practices. In Europe, she marveled at the emphasis on high-quality, fresh ingredients, seasonality, and the slow food movement. European meals featured more modest portions, and food was celebrated as an integral part of cultural traditions and shared experiences. Additionally, Rachel noted a more responsible and moderate approach to alcohol consumption in Europe.

Tips for Moving (39:39)

Should you use moving companies or just sell your possessions and pack up your car? Rachel's firsthand experiences, including the challenges with a moving company and the successful use of U-Haul pods, highlight the benefits of a more hands-on approach to moving.

Teaching Kids To Cook (43:20)

Rachel advocates for teaching kids how to cook from a young age, emphasizing the importance of involving them in kitchen activities to foster a sense of ownership, empowerment, and positive reinforcement. She suggests starting with simple tasks like watching and gradually increasing involvement with age-appropriate activities. Rachel believes that teaching kids to cook not only enhances their coordination and language development but also instills curiosity and comfort in the kitchen, ultimately leading to healthier eating habits and a positive relationship with food throughout their lives.

Evolving Relationships with Parents (57:32)

Jiliane and Rachel discuss how their parents were somewhat strict during their younger years but gradually became more open and involved as they entered adulthood. Jiliane shares how her parents' trust and support grew, particularly after her sister graduated college, leading to a closer and more relaxed dynamic.

When we flip the script, Rachel asks Jiliane: “How has your relationship changed with your parents from high school to now?”

The gem drop from Tristan: "Everything you've been through, starting from where you began, has ultimately led you to where you are today. Everything falls into place in a perfect alignment."

Join Jiliane and Tristan on this podcast episode as they explore personal growth, relationships, financial habits, the transformative impact of therapy, and their own motivation to pursue entrepreneurship.

Tristan Akong, born and raised in Queens, New York, is a man with a curious and growth-oriented mindset. As the youngest of three boys in an immigrant family from Trinidad and Tobago, he learned the value of personal development and financial literacy. Tristan's journey began after a challenging experience during his senior year of high school, which led him to reflect on his actions and strive for personal growth.

Through his involvement in multi-level marketing, Tristan cultivated a strong foundation in financial literacy, people skills, and self-development. This newfound knowledge motivated him to question conventional paths and seek alternative routes to success. He embraced the practice of writing down his aspirations on post-it notes, later upgrading to a whiteboard, which served as a tangible reminder of his desired future.

The conversation takes a personal turn as Tristan opens up about his relationship with Jiliane's sister, Janille, and how it has impacted his personal growth. 

Keep listening to learn about:

Marriage and Meaningful Relationships (08:34)

Jiliane and Tristan discuss the importance of actively nurturing and appreciating their relationships, and how Tristan has implemented habits like acts of kindness and words of affirmation to keep his marriage flourishing. They emphasize the value of transitioning personal success into meaningful relationships.

Financial Literacy and Money Management (10:02)

Jiliane and Tristan share their interest in financial literacy and the challenges faced by individuals, especially those from immigrant backgrounds, in learning about money management. They mention books like "Rich Dad, Poor Dad" and "The Magic of Thinking Big" as influential in shaping their mindset. They also discuss their personal money management strategies.

The Experience of Moving (26:15)

Tristan reflects on the valuable lessons learned during this major transition and emphasizes the importance of relying on strong relationships, particularly his connection with his wife. Therapy emerges as another transformative element in Tristan's life, enabling him to tap into his emotions and enhance his communication skills within his marriage. Jiliane adds her own perspective on therapy and how it helped her understand the impact of external factors on decision-making, prompting self-reflection.

Personal Motivation and Entrepreneurship (46:09)

They discuss their entrepreneurial drives, their experiences in starting and finishing projects, and the motivation behind their endeavors. Jiliane shares her natural inclination to start new things and help others take the first step, while Tristan reflects on his own experiences with starting multiple projects and the pressure he put on himself to finish them.

When we flip the script, Tristan asks Jiliane: “With your different projects and businesses that you've run, where do you think that drive that entrepreneurial drive and spirit stemmed from? And what motivates you to keep on going and launching different projects?”

Resources mentioned:

Rich Dad Poor Dad: What the Rich Teach Their Kids About Money That the Poor and Middle Class Do Not!: Kiyosaki, Robert

The Magic of Thinking Big: David J. Schwartz

A Resting Place (@arestingplace.sea)

The gem drop from Kristina: “You grow up thinking that what is expected of you is what you should expect of yourself…but the best thing we can do for ourselves is to break free from the expectations of others and discover our true passions and desires.”

In this episode, Jiliane and Kristina discuss their love for New York City, their experiences living abroad, and their deep connection to multiculturalism. Learn about the similarities in their immigrant family dynamics, cultural traits, and the challenges of meeting societal expectations while navigating their own aspirations.

Kristina Jaku is a Bronx-born New Yorker who has a deep-rooted connection to her hometown. Despite occasional attempts to leave, she always finds her way back to the vibrant pulse of the city.

From discussions on diverse upbringing, family dynamics, and cultural expectations, Jiliane and Kristina engage in a deep conversation about personal growth, breaking cultural expectations, the power of connection and vulnerability, and the search for identity and fulfillment beyond societal norms.

This episode touches on the following themes:

Jiliane and Kristina discuss their study-abroad experiences in Switzerland, Prague, and Sydney, respectively. They talk about the eye-opening lessons they learned about cultural diversity and the awareness people outside of the United States have about global events compared to Americans. They reflect on how growing up in a multicultural neighborhood in New York City influenced their appreciation for different cultures and shaped their ability to adapt and integrate into new environments.

Jiliane shares her journey of self-exploration and the process of questioning societal, cultural, and personal expectations that shaped her identity. She describes the importance of finding her own path and pursuing activities like painting as a means of self-expression and personal fulfillment. Jiliane also mentions her affinity for European culture and her desire to experience a different way of life, emphasizing the search for happiness and contentment beyond societal norms.

Jiliane and Kristina discuss the commonalities they observe in the experiences of their Filipino and Albanian immigrant families. They talk about the pressure to succeed academically and prioritize education. The conversation highlights the sacrifices made by immigrant parents and the drive to succeed in a new country.

The conversation delves into the cultural traits and dynamics within their respective communities. They mention the close-knit nature of the Albanian diaspora and their wariness of outsiders, which can be attributed to the historical context of political oppression and refugee experiences.

Jiliane and Kristina touch upon the differences in gender roles and expectations within their families and cultures. They reflect on the pressures and comparisons they felt growing up, with Jiliane experiencing expectations based on her sister's achievements, and Kristina navigating the complexities of being treated differently as a girl within an Eastern European cultural context.

Jiliane opens up about her personal journey of self-discovery and growth, particularly in relation to her relationships. She reflects on the challenges of breaking societal and cultural expectations, such as the stigma surrounding divorce in their immigrant communities. Jiliane emphasizes the importance of standing up for oneself and pursuing a life that aligns with personal aspirations, despite cultural pressures.

When we flip the script, Kristina asks Jiliane about:

What are you proudest of in your life? What pleases you? What are you looking for next?