If Only I’d Known Sooner: Navigating HR, Bipolar Disorder, and the Secret to Better Workplaces

Are you tired of launching communication initiatives, DEI trainings, or new HR strategies only to face the same burnout, misunderstandings, and resistance from leadership? You’re not alone. Many HR leaders, managers, and advocates for inclusion feel stuck between wanting real change and hitting the same barriers.

In this episode, I’m joined by Lindsay Mattes —HR leader, TEDx speaker, author, and founder of **Kinder HR**—who is redefining what workplace support can look like. With over 25 years in HR and her own late-in-life bipolar diagnosis, Lindsay brings both professional expertise and personal insight to the conversation. Her people-first, kindness-driven approach shows how empathy can become a powerful business strategy.

You’ll discover how to:

* Build trust and retention by infusing kindness into HR practices.

* Improve communication strategies that actually break down barriers.

* Leverage neurodiversity as a driver of innovation and collaboration.

* Reimagine HR by challenging outdated norms and embracing new perspectives.

* Find balance and resilience while navigating mental health challenges.

Lindsay’s story and strategies prove that meaningful workplace change is not only possible—it’s within reach when we lead with empathy.

Resources from this episode:

* Visit Lindsay’s website: https://kinder-hr.com/

* Connect on LinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/in/lindsaykmattes/

* Read her book: *Don’t Be a D*ck-HR\* https://kinder-hr.com/book

* Watch her TEDx Talk: The Secret to a Better Workplace https://kinder-hr.com/speaking-engagements

* Book Lindsay for workshops or speaking: https://kinder-hr.com/speaking-engagements

What if you could finally stop second-guessing yourself and fully show up as the real you—on stage, in business, and in life? In this episode, we explore how to move beyond self-doubt, quiet the inner critic, and embrace a new level of unfiltered confidence and freedom.

My special guest, Marci Brand, is a seasoned business development expert, speaker, and mentor with over three decades of experience. She founded a successful marketing consultancy in the apartment industry and served as president of the Howard County Business Women’s Network. Known for blending professional expertise with personal authenticity, Marci helps women leaders find their voice, navigate transformation, and step boldly into leadership with resilience and clarity.

Together, we dive into:

* Overcoming the “audience complex” to speak with confidence and genuine connection.

* Leadership insights that empower women to break barriers and amplify their impact.

* Time and stress management strategies to stay productive without burning out.

* Transforming personal loss into fuel for growth, strength, and renewal.

“Judging yourself is not doing anything positive for anyone, especially you.” — Marci Brand

If you’re ready to let go of outdated expectations and redefine success on your own terms, this conversation will inspire and empower you to step forward with confidence.

Resources:

Website: https://marcibrand.com – Learn more about Marci and her coaching & consulting services.

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/marci-brand-peformance-coach – Connect professionally and join the conversation.

Newsletter: https://marcibrand.substack.com – Get insights, resources, and inspiration delivered to your inbox.

Athena Powerlink: https://athenapowerlinkbaltimore.org – Discover resources to support women-owned businesses.

Howard County Business Women’s Network (BWN): https://mybwn.org – Explore networking and empowerment opportunities.

Helping Others Navigate Neurodivergence: My Calling as an ADHD Coach

Have you heard the three myths about managing ADHD that might be holding you back?

Myth #1: ADHD is just about being hyperactive.

Myth #2: People with ADHD can't succeed in their careers.

Myth #3: ADHD management strategies are one-size-fits-all. T

he truth might surprise you, and I can't wait to share it with you. Stay tuned for the eye-opening strategies that could change the game for managing ADHD in your daily life.

My special guest is Viktoriya Selden Viktoriya Selden, a seasoned coach with a unique focus, brings a wealth of personal and professional experience to the table. Born in Russia and now residing in the US, Viktoriya's journey from overcoming language barriers to building a successful career services practice for individuals with disabilities is truly inspiring.

Her recent ADHD diagnosis has given her a fresh perspective, enabling her to connect with her clients on a deeper level. Viktoriya's personal narrative and professional expertise make her an invaluable resource for individuals navigating ADHD and other forms of neurodivergence.

“Differently is not bad. It's not wrong, it’s just differently.” Viktoriya Selden

In this episode, you will learn about:

• Mastering coaching techniques for effective ADHD management.
• Unleashing the potential: career services tailored for individuals with disabilities.
• Navigating neurodivergence: empowering individuals through self-diagnosis.
• Crafting winning strategies for neurodivergent job seekers.
• Exploring the world of employer accommodations for neurodivergent employees.

Coaching techniques can significantly aid in managing ADHD symptoms effectively. By understanding the unique challenges faced by individuals with ADHD, coaches like Viktoriya Selden can provide personalized strategies for success. These coaching techniques can help individuals enhance their organization, time management, and focus skills in various aspects of their lives.

The resources mentioned in this episode are:

• If you or someone you know is seeking career services, including executive functioning coaching and social skills coaching, reach out to Viktoriya Selden at her website https://www.pcscareerservices.com or via email at [email protected].
• Connect with Viktoriya on Linkedin https://www.linkedin.com/in/viktoriya-selden
• For more information on neurodiversity and resources for individuals and families, visit the Neurodiversity Foundation's website at www.neurodiversityfoundation.org
• To explore self-diagnosis tools and learn more about neurodivergence, visit the Neurodiversity Hub at www.neurodiversityhub.org.
• To learn more about neurodivergent-friendly companies and their initiatives, visit the Neurodiversity at Work website at www.neurodiversityatwork.com

Living the Life You've Imagined: Answering the Whisper on Your Heart Are you ready to uncover the surprising truth about pride and satisfaction? Rachael Edmondson Clark shares a unique perspective that challenges traditional notions of pride and invites you to rethink your own journey.

Discover the unexpected connection between pride and comparison, and the powerful shift towards finding fulfillment from within. Rachael, an accomplished entrepreneur and mental health advocate, provides valuable expertise in addressing burnout in corporate careers and transitioning to entrepreneurship. With a strong emphasis on the positive impact of nature on mental wellness, Rachael highlights the importance of building a robust support network for personal and professional growth. Her extensive experience and strategic insights make her a trusted resource for corporate professionals looking to overcome burnout and excel in the entrepreneurial realm.

In this episode, you will be able to:

• Discover effective strategies for overcoming burnout in corporate careers.
• Learn about the importance of nature for enhancing mental health and well-being.
• Explore the process of transitioning from corporate life to entrepreneurship.
• Uncover the key to building a strong support network for success in business.
• Gain insights into powerful strategies for personal and professional growth.

Harnessing Nature's Power Nature plays a crucial role in mental, as emphasized by Rachel's advice to connect with nature for alignment. Spending time outdoors can help individuals restore balance, find clarity, and improve mental well-being. Harnessing nature's power can support individuals in overcoming challenges, reducing stress, and enhancing resilience.

Resources:

• Rachael shares about the powerful impact on her life through reading Joeseph Campbell’s The Heroes Journey. Find out more about the book here-https://www.jcf.org/learn/joseph-campbell-heros-journey
• Rachael also recommends the documentary about Joseph Campbell-Finding Joe. Here is the link to it on YouTube-https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=s8nFACrLxr0
• Rachael was also impacted by watching the video Choice Points that can be found here-https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OV15x8LvwAQ
• Seek support from a coach or mentor to navigate career transitions, personal growth, and leadership development, and consider the value of having a support network to guide you through challenges and opportunities.
• Embrace the journey of self-discovery and personal growth, and remember that it's okay to seek physical restoration, emotional well-being, and mental clarity as part of the process.

From Pleasing to Purpose: Finding Your Authentic Voice in Life and Business

If you're feeling the weight of keeping secrets and struggling to navigate personal relationships, then you are not alone! The impact of childhood secrets can linger into adulthood, affecting how we view ourselves and interact with others. But what if there's a way to break free from the burden of secrecy and step into a more authentic, self-loving identity?

Let's explore the power of embracing authenticity and fostering empathy in our daily interactions. My special guest is Dr. Lisa Gordon Dr. Lisa Gordon, affectionately known as the fairy godmother of chiropractic and wellness, has been providing care to the Howard County community since 1989. With a focus on gentle chiropractic techniques, applied kinesiology, and nutrition response testing, she tailors treatment programs to each patient's individual needs.

As a seasoned healthcare professional, Dr. Lisa brings a wealth of life experience and education to our conversation, delving into topics like overcoming the fear of being judged and the impact of childhood secrets on adulthood. Her insights and expertise will surely resonate with our audience, offering a unique perspective on embracing authenticity and fostering empathy in daily interactions.

"I think any time we can love each other anyway, even though our political views are different, our religious views are different, our lifestyle views are different, if we can love each other, that is bringing more love to the world, and that's healing." - Dr. Lisa Gordon

In this episode, you will be able to:

• Embrace your uniqueness and overcome the fear of being judged.
• Learn the importance of feeling safe and secure in your relationships.
• Uncover the impact of childhood secrets on your adult life.
• Discover the path to finding self-love and embracing a lovable identity.
• Navigate and foster empathy when dealing with differences in your professional life.

The resources mentioned in this episode are:

• Learn more about Dr. Lisa’s practice, the services she offers, and her approach to healthcare by visiting her website- https://drlisagordon.com/
• Visitors can explore the website to gain a deeper understanding of Dr. Lisa's work and schedule appointments or consultations. o You can also contact her office at 667-240-2923.
• Neuro Emotional Technique (NET) - Dr. Lisa Gordon mentions using NET in her practice to help individuals disconnect from past emotional experiences that may be impacting their current beliefs and behaviors. Reach each out to her to find out more and if it is a good fit for you.
• Within Her Circle - Brenda mentions she and Dr. Lisa are members of a women's networking group called Within Her Circle which provides members with opportunities for professional support, connection, and personal and professional growth. This serves as a call to action for individuals interested in joining similar groups to support their journey.

Reigniting Your Summer with Renewed Possibilities

Welcome back to If Only! In this short but heartfelt message, Brenda shares exciting updates—new music, a fresh vibe, and a renewed dedication to the transformational stories that define this podcast.

As summer unfolds, Brenda encourages you to pause and reflect on the “If Only” that may still be holding you back.

With powerful replays on the way and brand-new episodes returning in September, now is the perfect moment to reconnect with what’s possible.

Summer Challenge:

Ask yourself — What’s the “If Only” that still stops me?

Then… take just one small step toward the life you truly love.

What’s Inside:

* Replay of impactful past episodes

* New episodes launching in September

* A personal invitation to reset and reflect

RESOURCES:

Contact Brenda:

[email protected]

Visit her website:

brendamcgregor.com

If Only I Hadn’t Gone Into Early Menopause: Turning Challenges into Strength

What happens when life takes an unexpected turn—one that disrupts your health, identity, and plans for the future? For Nirit Roddy, early menopause wasn’t just a medical milestone; it was a wake-up call that reshaped her relationship with her body, her goals, and her purpose.

In this deeply personal episode, Nirit shares how navigating early menopause became a turning point in her life. From struggling with energy, weight fluctuations, and a sense of losing control over her body, to finding new strength, clarity, and even the joy of adopting a child post-menopause—Nirit’s story is one of resilience, reinvention, and heart.

As the founder of Fit with Nirit, she now supports midlife women with compassion and real-world strategies—but her journey didn’t start with a business plan. It began with a need to heal, to adapt, and to reconnect with her own vitality on her own terms.

In this episode, you’ll hear:

1. How early menopause challenged Nirit’s identity—and ultimately led her to reclaim her health.
2. The emotional and physical transformation that came from rethinking her approach to wellness.
3. Her decision to adopt a child after menopause, and what it taught her about love and possibility.
4. Tools for managing hypothyroidism and wellness in midlife—drawn from her lived experience.
5. Why it’s okay to fail, to pivot, and to begin again—especially when your body feels like it’s rewriting the rules

This conversation is for anyone who’s ever thought, “If only I felt like myself again…”—and is ready to explore what’s possible on the other side of that thought.

Whether you’re just entering perimenopause or years past it, these trusted resources offer support, expert advice, and community as you navigate this unique chapter:

• North American Menopause Society (NAMS) www.menopause.org A trusted source of up-to-date, evidence-based information on all stages of menopause. NAMS offers guidance on symptoms, treatment options, lifestyle tips, and a “Find a Menopause Practitioner” tool.

• Gennev www.gennev.com A digital clinic focused entirely on menopause and midlife women’s health. Offers virtual visits with menopause-certified OB/GYNs, health coaching, and a library of educational articles and webinars. Contact information for Nirit Roddy:

• Connect with Nirit Roddy on Linkedin by visiting her here https://www.linkedin.com/in/nirit-roddy-204739183/ and on her website here

• Visit the Fit with Nirit website to learn more about Nirit's virtual wellness company and the programs she offers for women's health and fitness transformation. https://www.fitwithnirit.com/

• Join Nirit's free Facebook group for access to valuable tips, trainings, and resources related to health, fitness, and wellness. https://www.facebook.com/nirit.roddy

The Ripple Effect: How One Child Sparked a Lifetime of Service

Does it sound familiar to feel like your child doesn't quite fit into the "normal" mold and is facing challenges at school? You might have been told to just accept the status quo, but the pain of watching your child struggle and not getting the right support is overwhelming. If this resonates with you, it's time to break free from ineffective advice and take charge of your child's unique needs. It's time to advocate for them and empower yourself to make a real difference in their education and well-being.

My special guest is Donna Weaver Donna Weaver is a highly experienced realtor with over 14 years in the industry. She has been recognized for her exceptional service and dedication, receiving prestigious awards such as the CARE award and Baltimore magazine's top agent recognition. Co-founding HCAR Cares, Donna actively contributes to addressing community needs through various initiatives. Her passion for volunteering, spending quality time with her grandbabies, and exploring new hobbies like pickleball reflects her multifaceted interests.

As a breast cancer survivor, Donna's journey has provided valuable insights and inspiration, shaping her unique perspective on life. Her extensive involvement in community initiatives and real estate, coupled with her personal experiences, equips her with a wealth of knowledge to offer valuable support and guidance for parents navigating the challenges of supporting children with learning differences.

"Every kid is unique and every kid is different, and you need to know how to support those differences. The general classrooms, the public schools, aren't always set up for that." - Donna Weaver

In this episode, you will be able to:

• Discover effective strategies for supporting children with learning challenges.

• Uncover the profound impact of volunteering and community service.

• Learn how to build a meaningful life through adversity.

• Empowering advice from survivor Insights:

• Overcoming breast cancer requires resilience and determination. Being one's own advocate in healthcare is essential. Donna's story serves as inspiration to cherish each day and make a positive impact in the world.

The resources mentioned in this episode are:

https://www.donnaweaverhomesmd.com/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/donnaweave/

Charities Donna is committed to:

Howard County Association of Realtors (HCAR) Cares: https://hcarcares.org/.

Neighbor Network of Howard County Annual Thanksgiving Basket Drive: \https://www.neighbor-network.org/

Sleep In Heavenly Peace: Sleep in Heavenly Peace (SHP) constructs beds for kids in need. Their mission is NO KID SLEEPS ON THE FLOOR IN OUR TOWN! Visit their site here https://shpbeds.org/

Blossoms of Hope: Learn about and get involved with Blossoms of Hope, an organization that brings Santa to families' homes and supports breast cancer awareness and research. https://blossomsofhope.org/

Cured 18th and 21st: Visit the 18th and 21st restaurants, owned by Patty and Steve Wecker, to enjoy a meal and support their community involvement. Find out more https://www.cured1821.com/.

Breast Cancer Advocacy: Be your own advocate and educate yourself about breast cancer. Take control of your care plan and seek the support and resources you need to navigate your journey through breast cancer. Visit the Susan G. Komen site here https://www.komen.org/ and the American Cancer Society here https://www.cancer.org/.

Popping Bottles & Breaking Barriers – A Black Woman's Rise in the Champagne Industry

In this inspiring episode, we sit down with Marvina Robinson, the visionary founder and CEO of B. Stuyvesant Champagne, who shares her remarkable journey from a 20-year career in finance on Wall Street to breaking barriers in the traditionally exclusive champagne industry. Marvina opens up about the challenges of transitioning into entrepreneurship and reveals a powerful “If Only” moment: If only I had learned the power of networking sooner. Her late-blooming realization about the importance of networking transformed her path and offers invaluable insight for any entrepreneur.

With a background in biology and statistics from Norfolk State, Columbia, and Cornell, Marvina combines scientific precision with bold innovation in crafting her luxury brand. From hosting elegant tasting events at the Brooklyn Navy Yard to championing inclusivity in the wine world, her story is one of courage, creativity, and relentless determination.

"I don't really believe in sitting in negative spaces. If something fails for me, I will get over it quickly and then find a plan to figure it out." – Marvina Robinson

In this episode, you will learn:

* How to navigate the shift from corporate life to entrepreneurship

* Why networking is a game-changer for business success

* Tips for building a luxury brand rooted in authenticity and tradition

* Lessons from Marvina’s personal and professional evolution

The resources mentioned in this episode are:

• Visit the B. Stuyvesant Champagne website at https://www.stuyvesantchampagne.com/ to make reservations for a tasting at the Brooklyn Navy Yard tasting room.

• For updates on events, new releases, and pop-up locations, then follow B. Stuyvesant Champagne on:

Instagram

https://www.instagram.com/stuyvesantchampagne/

Facebook

https://www.facebook.com/STUYVESANTCHAMPAGNE/

• Purchase B. Stuyvesant Champagne directly from their website for direct-to-consumer shipping- https://www.stuyvesantchampagne.com/shop

• Inquire about memberships for exclusive access to a variety of champagnes and the new luxury tasting room https://www.stuyvesantchampagne.com/loyalty

• Attend the upcoming pop-up event at Hotel Zena in Washington, D.C., on June 14th for a special rose champagne experience. Link to Hotel Zena’s event calendar here https://www.viceroyhotelsandresorts.com/zena/activities/experiences

The Antidote is Action: Small Steps to Conquering Your Biggest Fears

Have you heard the myths about overcoming fear and self-limiting beliefs in professional development?

Myth 1: You have to have it all figured out before taking the next step.

Myth 2: Fear is a sign of weakness.

Myth 3: Success means never experiencing fear.

Let's dive deeper into these myths first. My special guest is Kathy Shanley Kathy Shanley brings over 30 years of experience as a C-suite executive in policy and public relations, making her a seasoned professional in effective business communication and executive coaching for leaders.

With a background in developing trusting behaviors in organizations and driving strategic decision-making, Kathy's expertise is instrumental in helping professionals rewire their mindsets for career advancement.

As an International Coaching Federation credentialed professional coach, she has empowered healthcare leaders and executives to build high-performing teams and manage conflict productively. Kathy's wealth of knowledge and practical strategies is invaluable for professionals seeking to overcome fear and self-limiting beliefs, ultimately leading to increased confidence and professional growth.

"The antidote to fear is action. Sometimes it's just a small action that moves you forward to the next action." - Kathy Shanley

In this episode, you will hear about:

• Mastering techniques to conquer fear and self-doubt in professional growth.
• Unleashing powerful communication strategies for successful business interactions.
• Cultivating high-performance teams through effective leadership skills.
• Harnessing the benefits of executive coaching to elevate leadership potential.
• Rewiring your mindset to unlock career advancement and professional success.
• Find out more about Kathy’s business and connect with her through her business website, Statice at https://www.think-statice.com/.
• Connect with Kathy on Linkedin at https://www.linkedin.com/in/zwarick/
• Kathy shared several tools to support growth and development including Conversational Intelligence and DISC Certification. Find out more on her website found here https://www.think-statice.com/services